River Breamish Reclaimed: Nature's Course Restored

Centuries of agricultural re-routing have been reversed as the River Breamish in Northumberland has been returned to its natural course. A 1km stretch of the river on the Harehope Estate underwent restoration, guided by a combination of 1600s maps and advanced 3D terrain modelling.

The successful Life Wader project involved installing silt traps, shallow ponds, and wetlands to re-establish the river's meanders. This initiative has created vital new habitats, improved water quality, and bolstered flood defenses, significantly benefiting protected species like Atlantic salmon and lamprey.

As part of a wider restoration strategy, the project is monitored to track improvements, with findings to be shared for future conservation efforts. Landowner cooperation was essential, and the landscape is already showing signs of healing, with wildlife returning to the newly formed wetlands.