Eel screens to protect endangered species

Thames Water are currently undertaking works to install eel screens at New Gauge on the River Lee.

The new screens will prevent young eels and other waterbourne species from entering the New River.

The European eel has seen populations collapse in the last three decades, with the number of young eels migrating in to European rivers falling to less than 5% of 1980 levels.

The UK has a target to increase the qualnity of returning silver eel populations to 40% of pre-1980 levels over the long term.

Work started at the New Gauge site in November last year, when a temporary compound was built next to the river. 

The works include the installation of a support framework for the screens and a steel kiosk housing the mechanical and electrical control components of the screens. The kiosk will be partially screened by natural vegetation to minimise its visual impact on the riverside setting and to protect long distance views.

The project is expected to be complete by the early Autumn, when the temporary compound will be removed and the towpath restored to its normal route.