United Utilities Group PLC : Spawn free: Lancashire river scheme gives fish a boost

19 January 2012

An eco scheme in Lancashire's scenic and secluded Bowland Fells is set to deliver a helping fin to spawning salmon and trout.

United Utilities has teamed up with the Environment Agency (EA), Natural England and local residents to protect water levels in the River Brennand and Whitendale, in the Forest of Bowland.

Since the 1880s, water has been taken from the two remote rivers, which form part of the River Ribble catchment, to provide drinking water for homes in Blackburn and the Ribble Valley.

Under a new agreement with the EA, United Utilities will ensure that water is only taken from the rivers when it is plentiful, to ensure there is always more than enough water for fish to swim upriver during the spawning season.

The £2.3 million scheme, which is being submitted for planning approval this month (January), is expected to start in May. It will see United Utilities decommission a number of water intakes along the two rivers and refurbish those that will remain. To make up the shortfall of water for homes in Blackburn, a new pipeline from Martholme water treatment works, near Clayton-Le-Moors, to Ramsgreave service reservoir is being constructed by United Utilities - ensuing thousands of taps remain flowing.

Peter Hunt, United Utilities' project manager said: "This scheme will make life easier for migrating salmon and trout, and support the wider eco-system in this area of outstanding natural beauty.

"As the region's water company, we always have to balance the needs of our customers with the needs of the environment. By reducing the amount of water we take from these two rivers, and making up the shortfall from elsewhere, we can support wildlife, without disrupting household supplies."

John Wells, Chairman of the Brennand and Whitendale Focus Group, a community group which has been closely involved in the plans said: "This project has been supported by a unique environmental partnership which has worked incredibly hard over many years to ensure that the scheme provides the best environmental outcomes.

"The decisions which have been taken will have a significant and positive impact on this beautiful area, and our legacy will be there for generations to come."

John Hickling, a Natural England Conservation Advisor said: "Natural England strongly supports United Utilities' plans, which will bring great benefits to this special environment.

"Increased water flow along the Brennand and Whitendale rivers will make it easier for migrating salmon and trout to reach their spawning grounds up-stream. It is also likely to substantially improve the invertebrate life of both rivers, providing food for fish and many species of riparian birds, such as dippers, grey wagtails and common sandpipers."

Matt Crump for the Environment Agency said: "For several years, we've worked alongside United Utilities and the Brennand and Whitendale Focus group made up of members of the local community to increase water levels in Brennand and Whitendale.

"The Environment Agency aims to ensure that water companies, farmers and industry do not take too much water from our rivers, and by looking at abstraction licences all across the North West, we are making sure that there is a more sustainable use of our water resources."

The Bowland Fells is a Site of Special Scientific Interest. It is a vital site for breeding hen harriers, and plays host to a wide variety of flora and fauna.

The project's remote location will mean the water company may have to airlift in essential construction equipment by helicopter.

The project is part of United Utilities record-breaking £3.6 billion investment programme for 2010-2015, to improve the North West's water and wastewater network, and protect the environment.