Human-made barriers to migration remain one of the major limiting factors to fish stocks in Wales, especially SAC-designated species such as Atlantic salmon, sewin (sea trout), shad, lampreys and endangered species such as the European eel.
In 2024, Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) asked Afonydd Cymru to support their AMP8 (2025-2030) Fish Passage Programme for the removal of barriers to fish migration caused by its assets across Wales.
These include weirs built to protect sewage or water supply pipes and, in some instances, the pipes themselves.
With the help of regional rivers trusts, those barriers that have already been identified will be resolved by 31st March 2027. Any other DCWW-associated barriers not yet identified will be found and resolved by 31 March 2030.
Project to date
March 2025
The surveys are complete with sites needing resolution being prioritised. We expect sign-off from Welsh Water by early March and delivery of 9 barrier removals or easements by March 2027.