Gilly Mease Confluence Works

DemolitionEarthworksRemediation
Project Value £85,000.00
Project Programme Period 10 Weeks
Type of works Large-scale, flood-risk reducing sediment trap, Earthworks

Introduction

The River Mease meanders from Ashby-de-la-Zouch westwards across Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Staffordshire where it meets the River Trent. Covering around 25km (16 miles) the River Mease represents one of the best examples of an unspoilt lowland river.

The rural river supports otters, crayfish and the incredibly rare Spined Loach. It is designated as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and a Site of Specific Scientific Interest (SSSI).

Despite being highly- designated, the River Mease still suffers from poor habitats and water quality problems in some areas. As part of the partnership, we’re now addressing the pressing issues the river faces.

Works Description

Formerly, a frequently flooded piece of land, EDR and the Trent Rivers Trust worked with the local farmer on converting a former arable field turned scrubland into a wetland area.

As well as lowering the land level, a series of new channels were created across the site. This encouraged water into the floodplain and allowed the sediment from the river to settle out. The site has established with native plants to absorb the phosphates. The site is now supporting fish and invertebrates.

Over time, the site will develop a range of river and wetland habitats, of value to fish, birds, plants and invertebrates. A monitoring programme is underway to monitor the amount of phosphate captured by the scheme.

The site is subject to extensive monitoring which will tell us more about the effectiveness of the scheme and help inform future projects.