A local environmental charity is marking the successful completion of significant restoration and accessibility milestones at Shotley Grove as part of the ongoing “Reviving Shotley Grove” project.
Since 2017, Tyne Rivers Trust has worked alongside dedicated volunteers, local residents, the Derwent Angling Association, and the Community Foundation North East to revitalise this vital local ecosystem. The project has addressed critical environmental barriers and improved public access to nature through several key initiatives.
Jenny Dowden, volunteer coordinator at Tyne Rivers Trust said, “This project provides a healthier local environment, better access to nature, and learning opportunities for children. And it couldn’t have been done without the commitment of our volunteers and partners, and funding from the Community Foundation North East.”
During 2017 a fish pass was constructed at the Shotley Grove weir, which previously served as a major obstacle for migrating salmon. The pass features a series of raised pools that allow fish to rest while making the incline easier to navigate as they head upstream.
Accessibility to the wetland area has been much improved to make the previously inaccessible and overgrown wetland reachable for the community. The Trust also constructed a new boardwalk which allows visitors to explore deeper sections of the wetland and participate in activities like pond dipping.
More recently, volunteers for Tyne Rivers Trust spent several days manually removing years of sediment build-up to improve water quality and boost biodiversity. This work is essential for maintaining natural flood control and filtration benefits.
New interpretation signs have also been installed at the fish pass and boardwalk to educate visitors about local wildlife, including salmon, trout, lampreys, and birds like the grey wagtail and heron. In addition, school visits have been arranged to help young people learn about the importance of their local river.
The public are invited to attend a community event taking place on Tuesday 10 March between 2.30pm and 4.30pm at The Anchor Inn, Whittonstall to find out about the work in Shotley Bridge, what has been achieved so far and how to get involved in future opportunities.
Tyne Rivers Trust works collaboratively with local communities, partners and volunteers to care for and improve the River Tyne, its streams and burns throughout its catchment. We connect and inspire people about their local river, improve water quality and biodiversity, help to increase the region’s prosperity and ensure our rivers are resilient to climate change. Find out more about their work at: www.tyneriverstrust.org