Home Who We Are What We Do Business Info Environment & Society Careers Contact News River Tame realigned in time for the fish spawning season Jackson realigns the River Tame through the new control structure in time for the fish spawning season at the Environment Agency’s Perry Barr and Witton Flood Risk Management Scheme. The team diverted the river flow back to its original alignment by removing temporary sheet piles and works around the control structure. The new river channel has been upgraded with erosion protection and hand placed rip-rap to encourage fresh water habitation. A specialist sub-contracted team also performed a ‘fish rescue’ operation before draining the diversion channel. Working collaboratively with the EA, Jackson worked persistently to complete this vital phase of the scheme before the river’s ‘closed season’. During the ‘closed season’ all in channel works are prohibited due to fish spawning. The team faced challenges with undertaking works in poor weather conditions after the UK was hit with Storm Ciara and Storm Dennis. Pumps were installed to manage water levels to create a safer working environment. Construction of the embankment and infilling of the diversion channel is now underway along with the embankment construction on the Secondary Spillway. Environment Agency’s Project Manager, Josh Harris said: “Diverting the river back along its original course was a great success for the Perry Barr team. The diversion was planned perfectly, taking into account the local environment and critical timings to have minimal impact on local fish species. Again the team showed great collaboration to efficiently execute this key milestone of the project.” Jackson’s Project Manager, Paul Charnley said: “To accomplish the work we have to date, along with diverting the watercourse back through the newly built control structure is a huge milestone for the Project.” “Having coped with one of the wettest winters on record with seven flood events in recent months, the whole Perry Barr team had to dig in to complete the diversion on time. Had it not, there would have been a three month delay to the scheme due to channel working restrictions.” “The sheer grit and determination of all involved through some extremely testing conditions is admirable showing why our staff are Jackson’s best asset and why Jacksons is such a key partner to the EA.” Once complete, this project will reduce flood risk to 1,400 properties surrounding the River Tame by holding 1.7 million cubic metres of flood water. Modern Slavery Statement icons by flaticon.com