RIVERS in Warrington could soon become a haven for water voles thanks to a new flood defence scheme.
Immortalised as river-loving ‘Ratty’ in the Wind in the Willows, the tiny mammals face an uncertain future in the UK due to widespread habitat loss and predation. The £34 million scheme, which will provide greater protection from the risk of flooding to about 2,000 homes and businesses in Warrington, aims to offer a new stronghold for the species through the creation of conservation areas.
As part of the project, the Environment Agency and Warrington Borough Council, have created a new 250m stretch of river along Padgate Brook in Orford. The new channel has been specifically designed with water voles in mind and includes a range of features including grass ledges which provide ideal feeding areas.
The water voles’ riverside home has also been boosted by the planting of wildflowers and the use of site-won turf which has allowed the area to establish quickly. By creating the right conditions in the landscape, the Environment Agency hopes to not only attract the iconic water voles but also birds, amphibians and insects to the area.
This phase of the scheme builds on the previous work in the Twiggeries which improved the habitat for water voles and other wildlife, while also creating a more natural flood management system by reconnecting the river with its floodplain.
Chris Stone of the Environment Agency said: “The River Mersey Warrington Flood Risk Management Scheme aims to provide multiple benefits to both people and wildlife and really is setting the benchmark for flood protection and environmental improvement in urban areas.
“One of our key aims is to create a long term sustainable future for the endangered water vole while safeguarding the people and property of Warrington from the threat of flooding. With 7.2km of new defences working side-by-side with the river restoration, the risk is greatly reduced while, at the same time, having a positive impact upon local biodiversity.”
