It demonstrates the rich haven for wildlife in and along the river, which, not so long ago, was filthy. Trout, salmon and mullet now flourish in the river and its banks have become a rich habitat for wildlife.
The Minister unveiled new signage at different key points along the river telling a wildlife story specific to each location. She also revealed many other exciting wildlife projects, including a specifically designed island for gulls, a raft for ducks and specially designed boxes for birds’ nests to prevent eggs being eaten by rodents.
Margaret Ritchie said: “Not so long ago the Lagan was filthy. A river on which we turned our backs. Those days have gone. Now we have trout and salmon in its waters. We have rich biodiversity and wildlife on its shores.”
The new signage, which she commissioned, is erected at four locations along the river at Lagan Weir, Hauler’s Way, McConnell Weir and Governor’s Bridge.
The Minister continued:”The signage I unveiled today will raise awareness of the local habitat and wildlife. It will be a biodiversity treasure trove for tourists. It will also encourage local communities to gain a greater insight and respect for the Lagan and its special environment. I encourage people to go on this nature trail we have created and enjoy the river.”
Notes to Editors:
- The Lagan impoundment under DSD’s responsibility covers a distance of 4.8km from Donegal Quay to Stranmillis Weir, which means there are 9.6km of banks and associated walkways which are maintained by DSD and other stakeholders.
- The signage (including photographs) was designed with input from the River Users' Forum, Belfast City Council, Environment & Heritage Service (now the Northern Ireland Environment Agency) and Quay Marinas. The River Users' Forum is a body of non - elected stakeholders who voluntarily give their free time to discuss the issues affecting the development and management of the River Lagan.
- The Revetments Programme which seeks to repair the river banks will be carried out in two/three stages. The first stage has been completed and the second stage will commence in October 2009.
- Mullet, flounders, eels, sea trout, brown trout and salmon are only some of the fish to be found between Lagan Weir and Stranmillis Weir. Salmon have also been observed climbing the fish pass at Stranmillis Weir, sometimes pursued by a grey seal.
- The Department’s River Management Team based at Lagan Weir has completed several other wildlife related projects. These include the construction and installation of a tern Island, a duck raft and 17 bird nest boxes - all of which have been made out of recycled materials such as driftwood retrieved from the river.
- In addition, work has just been completed on the first stage of a two year river bank repair programme. This project was carried out in a sustainable manner adopting traditional repair methods in order to provide the greatest protection to the environment.
- Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of Office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via page number 07699 715440 and your call will be returned.
- View pictures of Minister Margaret Ritchie on the new tourism trail on the River Lagan
