SEVERN Trent Water is now supporting a multi-million pound scheme to ensure fish have an easier route to swim along the river Severn.

Unlocking the Severn, the group behind the £19.7 million project, says it is one of the largest river restorations of its kind ever attempted in Europe. The aim of the project is to secure the long term future of many of the UK’s declining and protected fish species.

READ MORE: Work on river Severn fish pass scheme to get underway

Work began at the fish pass at Bevere in May, and now work can continue at Diglis as the water company has opened up its riverside waste water treatment plant.

Those behind the project say the fish pass at Diglis has an innovative design that includes the first underwater river viewing window in England, providing a unique perspective on the river’s wildlife.

Meanwhile, local residents interested in the project and the construction works can find out more at a drop-in information event being held on Diglis Island tomorrow(October 22) between 3pm and 6.30pm.

Jason Leach, programme director, said: “We are pleased to announce that Severn Trent have come on board as a partner. This partnership with Severn Trent is the fruition of working closely together over the past months on common goals around the health of the river and engaging the community.

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"It is great news for local residents as, thanks to the support of Severn Trent we can now route construction vehicles and machinery through their site and avoid disruption on the Kingfisher path.”

Rob Cunningham, Severn Trent's environment lead, added: "We’re really pleased to be able to help this exciting project to improve working access to site of the fish pass at Diglis and to avoid disruption to people who enjoy the local greenspace footpaths. After decades of investment in reducing pollution it’s fantastic to help solve the final piece of the puzzle"