Salmon return to River Ecclesbourne in Derbyshire after 100 years

Salmon spawn in Derbyshire

Parr have been found in the River Ecclesbourne’s upper reaches for the first time in over a century, marking a significant milestone for a multi-partner restoration project.

The fish were discovered near Turnditch following work to restore a 400m stretch of river to its pre-18th century course. The original channel was abandoned when the river was diverted to power a mill.

Salmon numbers in the Ecclesbourne have risen from 13 in 2023 to 52 this August, according to an independent survey. The project site now marks the furthest upstream point that salmon have been recorded in the river.

Bypassing barriers to migration

The restoration, completed this year after starting in 2023, bypassed the final weir between Wirksworth and the river’s confluence with the Derwent near Duffield. This has opened 28km of habitat for migratory fish.

“Finding salmon parr here confirms we have achieved the extraordinary”, said Jennifer Kril, living rivers officer at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust, which led the project. Tim Jacklin, deputy director of the Wild Trout Trust, described the results as “fantastic” given the pressures facing migratory salmonids in England.

Partners included Chatsworth and Nestlé Waters & Premium Beverages UK. European eel, grayling, trout, lamprey, minnow, stone loach and bullhead also benefit from the improved access.