Improving biodiversity while protecting an ancient semi-natural woodland in County Durham
Grassholme Reservoir in County Durham is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB). It’s also within proximity of numerous sites of specific scientific interest (SSSI), special areas of conservation (SAC), and special protection areas (SPA). Originally completed in 1914, the reservoir supplies raw water to Lartington Water Treatment works.
When the most recent statutory inspection of the reservoir found the northern embankment in need of stabilizing, Northumbrian Water appointed Esh-Stantec to reconstruct it and relocate the adjacent watercourse running along its toe. While successfully addressing the instability risks of the embankment for safety, we also looked to the area’s biodiversity. Throughout the project, we took special care and consideration to protect an ancient semi-natural woodland. We translocated approximately 100 trees from the woodland, planted a further 3,700 trees, and diverted 325 metres (1,066 feet) of the Carl Beck watercourse.
These works provided water supply resilience and improved biodiversity, while maintaining the sensitive landscape setting.
At a Glance
- Offices
- Client
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- Northumbrian Water Group
- Partners
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- Turner and Townsend
- Esh-Stantec
- BSG Ecology
James Atkins, Senior Civil Engineer
From Scotland to Ethiopia, our team is delivering great work around the world.
Annabela Leung, Senior Civil Engineer
Whether it’s a clean water or wastewater, a reservoir or a pipeline project, there are always opportunities for civil engineers to shine.
Great acoustics result in better, more sustainable developments—and increase value for both clients and stakeholders.
Kelvin Limbrick, Technical Director – Hydrology and Flood Risk
An important part of my role is to help steer our clients towards more sustainable practices within the natural and urban water environment.
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