Work nears completion on Primrose Lodge fish pass

What is thought to be England’s longest fish pass is nearing completion. The fish pass is being created as part of the Primrose Lodge Blue and Greenway Project (PLBGP), which is being completed by Ribble Rivers Trust in partnership with Primrose Community Nature Trust (PCNT).

The disused weir at Primrose Lodge, which is currently preventing fish from migrating upstream

The work, which has been delayed to flooding and COVID-19 work restrictions, is due to be completed in mid-October. Just in time for the autumn migratory run of salmon, sea trout, and brown trout.

These species are currently unable to enter Primrose Lodge and so are also cut off from the streams beyond Clitheroe in Worston, and on the side of Pendle Hill.

It’s not just fish that benefit from fish passes. They also support wildlife that preys on fish such as kingfishers, herons, and otters. In total 9 hectares of land and habitats will be connected.

Due to the size of the fish pass work is being completed in sections. In total the fish pass is made up of four flights, one of the flights has been completed, along with the foundations for the other flights which have been prefabricated off site.

People are also due to benefit from the Trust’s work at Primrose Lodge. A newly created footpath will connect Woone Lane to Whalley Road, with a viewing platform over the water looking out towards the lodge. In time it is hoped funding will be available for a bridge, and further footpath work to create a circular walk for use by the public, and children travelling to and from local schools.

Primrose Lodge Blue and Greenway Project is an ambitious project to convert the former Primrose Mill Lodge into a wildlife friendly, natural open space within the heart of Clitheroe.

The project is receiving £500,768 from the Ministry for Housing Communities and Local Government, through the European Regional Development Fund, as well as section 106 funding from Ribble Valley Borough Council and charitable funding from Ribble Rivers Trust.

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