The scheme delivered a significant ecological restoration initiative focused on improving fish passage, restoring natural river processes, and enhancing biodiversity along the Halter / Shotton Burn catchment.

The works involved the careful planning and execution of a full river restoration programme, including:

• Site access preparation and mobilisation, including delivery of materials, plant, and temporary fencing and infrastructure.

• Complete deconstruction and removal of the existing Halter Burn Weir.

• Crushing and stockpiling of concrete arisings for reuse by the landowner and tenant, supporting circular economy principles and reducing waste.

• Reprofiling of approximately 50 metres of river channel using site-won material to establish a naturalised average bed gradient of 1:50 (2%).

• Installation of rock rolls and coir rolls to provide bank toe protection and encourage long-term channel stability.

• Regrading and restoration of riverbanks where required.

• Final site reinstatement and demobilisation, including removal of temporary structures and equipment.

The removal of the redundant structure has reconnected fragmented habitat and restored natural river continuity, significantly improving ecological resilience across the catchment.

As part of the wider environmental enhancement strategy, more than 300 native trees were planted along the burn corridor.

“To see what migratory species will benefit from their newly acquired habitat upstream is exciting as well as the restoration of natural river processes that have been long neglected.”

Francis Hayes

SEPA’s Project Officer