Niagara Weir stabilisation and fish pass structural repair
A multi-disciplinary project contributing to a wider initiative by the Great Yorkshire Rivers partnership to support barrier removal and reverse the 83% reduction in fish in the River Don that has occurred since the industrial revolution. We were initially appointed by Ward & Burke to investigate the nature and extent of damage at the upper Niagara Weir and propose options for a permanent repair. Subsequently we were engaged to develop a detailed design for the structural repairs of the weir and new fish pass.
- Client Ward & Burke
- Location Niagara Weir, River Don, Sheffield
- Project
partners Yorkshire Water, Environment Agency, Sheffield City Council, Don Rivers Trust and Rivers Trust
Risk-based approach for a complex structure
Historically, the site comprises of two weirs forming a large and complex structure. This project involved strengthening the downstream weir face and channel bed, reconstruction of the left bank wall, a new larinier fish pass and measures to provide safe canoe portage around the weir. With limited site information, a risk-based approach was needed to understand the problem and develop a solution. This identified an efficient balance between site surveys, conservative assumptions and verification during site works. The complexity of the fish pass structure, the depth of scour and size of structural repair walls were challenging to resolve, aswell as the design of the connections between individual structures.
Carbon monitoring for sustainability improvements
The project was delivered by our multidisciplinary teams including hydraulic modelling, civil engineering, geomorphology and fisheries services. Many other stakeholders were also involved and were required to work as an integrated team. Throughout all project stages, carbon monitoring was carried out to identify key contributors and opportunities for carbon reduction and sustainability improvements. By remediating the existing weir instead of entirely replacing the structure, as well as using reclaimed Yorkshire stone to rebuild the left bank wall, this contributed to a 40% saving in reduced volumes of concrete and steel.
Environmental enhancements supporting wider initiatives
Environmental enhancements such as recreation provision and weir/channel modification has further improved the fish passage at a strategic location on the River Don. This improvement is contributing to a wider initiative by the Great Yorkshire Rivers partnership to support barrier removal and reverse the 83% reduction in fish in the River Don that has occurred since the industrial revolution. The provision of canoe portage facilities and enhancement of landscape has achieved social value in a recognised area of social deprivation. This work contributed to the Niagara Weir Stabilisation and Fish Pass project being shortlisted for Upgrade and Renewal Project of the Year in the British Construction Industry Awards.
Contact Angie McKinney for more information about this project.
