Project Update 05/03/2026

Hi everyone,

We’re pleased to share a further update on our work at Ovingham. Since our last update in January, the team has continued to make good progress on site and has now completed the installation of the new eel screens.

All eel screens now installed

We’re happy to confirm that all four new eel screens are now in place.

The final pair were lifted into place earlier this month following careful preparation to make sure the work could be carried out safely and smoothly.

What we’ve been working on

In recent weeks, the team has been focused on:

• Installing the remaining eel screens
• Completing supporting work around the intake area
• Carrying out checks to make sure everything fits and operates as intended
• Managing river conditions, including clearing natural build‑up from the intake when needed

All of this work has been carefully planned and carried out with safety as the top priority.

What’s next

Over the coming weeks, work will continue to:

• Finish connecting and setting up the new screens
• Carry out testing to make sure the system works as designed
• Complete small finishing tasks around the intake area

This will help ensure the new screens are fully ready for long‑term use.

Looking ahead

Once fully set up, the new screens will help protect fish and eel populations in the River Tyne while supporting the reliable operation of the intake. This is an important part of improving the site for the future.

Thank you to local residents for your patience and continued support while this work takes place. We’ll continue to share updates as the project progresses.