Suttle Projects have been awarded Pilcot Mill Fish Pass scheme by South East Rivers Trust (SERT) working in partnership with South East Water. Pilcot Mill is located on the River Hart near Hook, Hampshire and the project involves the construction of a Larinier fish pass and eel pass.
A Larinier fish pass uses baffles to slow down water flow and reduce turbulence, making it easier for fish to navigate and swim upstream. These passes are designed to allow both coarse fish and salmonids to pass through. The eel pass uses the natural instincts of elvers to seek out fresh water, providing them a safe passage for migration.
Alistair Maidman Technical Director at Suttle Projects commented. “We are delighted to have been appointed by South East Rivers Trust and South East Water to undertake this work and be given this opportunity to play our part in helping rivers thrive again. Our aim is always to simplify projects and never is this more important than when we are working within SSSIs and environmentally sensitive locations.
Our work will be undertaken under very robust and proven working controls developed in these highly sensitive and biodiverse habitats and aligned with the requirements of Environment Agency Flood Risk Activity Permit consents. Projects of this nature involve many stakeholders and interested parties. As a priority alongside other key project start up actions, we implement a site specific WhatsApp Community Group to ensure everyone can update themselves of the proposed activities, access progress updates and have a simple channel to raise any questions and receive timely responses.”