The project at Whitworths Mill benefits fish, invertebrates, aquatic birds and the local fauna, diversifying
the river habitat through an urban stretch. The project contributes to delivery of Water Frame Directive,
improving the ecological status of the river. It will also help the EA deliver the Eel Management Plan and
meet its statutory obligations under the Eel Regulations.
• Increase and diversify marginal habitats in an urban environment.
• Provide shade over the water to improve cover for fish and reduce water temperature.
• Increase refuge and spawning habitats for fish.
• Improve the aesthetic of the urban environment, “greening” the hard and grey banks.
Installation of Floating Ecosystems
Approximately 150m of floating ecosystems was installed along the Whitworths Mill bank of the river, resulting in 252sq.m of habitat being created. The floating ecosystems comprise of metal frame filled with coir rolls, planted with native aquatic species such as Yellow Flag Iris, Purple Loosestrife, Water Mint as well as various reed and sedge species. There was a number of feature planters which contain trees included within the systems.