River reconnected to historic floodplain
Tyne Rivers TrustA river has been reconnected to its floodplain to protect threatened native species.
Approximately 10 hectares (25.7 acres) of wetland has been created on the banks of the River Rede, in Northumberland, reconnecting 0.6km (0.37 miles) of the water to its historic floodplain.
The scheme formed part of Tyne River Trust's project to tackle the challenges faced by salmon, trout and the critically endangered freshwater pearl mussel.
A tributary of the North Tyne, it is hoped the Rede's new wetlands will provide a vital resource for wading birds, amphibians and invertebrates.
To create the wetland, two chutes have been created on the banks of the River Rede along with ditch blocking.
An in-river boulder feature was also added on the Chesterhope Burn- a tributary of the Rede - to ease fish passage over a small weir and increase the area of available breeding habitat.
Hedgerow was also planted by volunteers to act as another habitat and filter pollutants before they reach the river.
Yves Martin, from Tyne Rivers Trust, said the floodplain reconnection was "essential for the future of our freshwater species".