EcoSF4: NE Hub Eel Pass Improvement Programme, Development & Design

Objectives

The objective of the project is to on behalf of the Environment Agency (the Contracting Authority) complete an optioneering study for each of the three sites to identify the preferred option for eel passage. This should then be progressed to detailed design suitable for construction. The eel pass design at each site should deliver the following objectives:

• To provide long term safe passage of eels past the structure, and operate reliably during eel and elver migration periods
• To provide an eel passage solution that can be safely constructed, operated, maintained and decommissioned;
• Is cost-effectivecost-effective to maintain, accessible for cleaning and inspections, and allows for monthly checks without specialist knowledge
• To provide an eel pass solution that is robust enough to withstand the hydraulic conditions and debris experienced at each structure.
• To provide consideration of whole life costs and whole life carbon to support decision making in the determination of the preferred option
• To meet the requirements set out in LIT 75351 AM TA Eel Pass, Fish Pass and Fish Counters Maintenance Instruction and Guide.
• Non powered solutions are preferred; however, the Environment Agency will consider more innovative solutions for Houghton Weir.