Major Northumberland river restoration project is complete - Environment Agency

One of the largest river restoration projects in the UK is complete in the Breamish Valley, Northumberland.

The River Breamish at Harehope Estate, South of Wooler, was historically modified and straightened centuries ago for agricultural purposes.

It’s estimated that around one mile of river channel was lost.

This created a river disconnected from its floodplain leading to a decline in freshwater species, reduced biodiversity and an increased risk of flooding downstream. The Breamish channel is now officially classed as in ‘unfavourable condition’.

Now this ambitious flagship project has combined studying ancient maps and using modern technology to trace the original channel and bring it back to its historic roots.

Restoring the river’s natural processes and allowing it to naturally flood the surrounding area has multiple benefits - creating a mosaic of new habitats, better fish passage, water quality improvements and climate change resilience.

The project is a key element of the River Till Restoration Strategy and was delivered through the LIFE WADER nature-recovery project in partnership with the Environment Agency, Tweed Forum, Natural England and local landowner, Harehope Estate.

‘Fantastic step forward for nature’

Jim Heslop, Environment Programme Manager for the Environment Agency in the North East, said: “Restoring the River Breamish to its dynamic and diverse natural state is a fantastic step forward for nature, bringing multiple benefits for people and wildlife. Allowing the river to move and interact with its floodplain once again will bring it back to life, creating wetland habitats where wildlife can thrive, while also improving water quality and reducing downstream floodwater pressures by slowing the flow and storing more water on the floodplain.”