The larger blocked-off area in the centre of the photo is the intake to the mini-hydro; the smaller blocked-off area photo left is the upper exit from the fish passage.

The site is the confluence of the Rivers Goyt and Sett in New Mills, High Peak. After recent floods this gravel shoal was deposited causing both to become land-locked.

The common view is the fish passage was badly designed from the outset, too long and steep for Grayling to negotiate (the rivers here are categorised as Trout and Grayling natural habitat), the exit is sited where a gill net could easily be used by poachers to catch any fish which choose that route, and there was no fish counter or camera to record whether the structure has ever been used. No need for a counter now!!

I'm of the opinion that a badly designed fish passage is worse than no fish passage. A badly designed one ticks an EA box: the money will not be spent a second time.

Andrew