The first South Wales, European funded fisheries project has started. The £224,000 collaborative project scheduled to last two years is aimed at; improving habitats, enhancing the economic value of the fishery and improving awareness of local biodiversity amongst the community and visitors to the area.

The project is match funded under Objective One with contributions from the A465 Heads of the Valley road mitigation scheme, BP Llandarcy and the Agency.

Work has already started on the first phases of the project. Historically, the weir at Aberdulais has restricted the migration of both salmon and sea trout (sewin) during periods of low river flow. Fish have been held up downstream of the weir rendering them susceptible to fish kills and illegal fishing. The pass will allow much improved access to the Neath system under a much wider range of river flows.

The project will also identify areas of habitat degradation and seek to resolve them. Improving the river banks (riparian strip) such as tree management and planting, in-river habitat e.g. stabilising spawning and nursery areas as well as improving access to spawning areas will contribute to the overall aims of improving aquatic and riparian eco-systems.

One of the most important areas, however, is to inform people of this work and improve the awareness of the issues affecting the river Neath. With help from the steering group and key stakeholders, we aim to maximise the potential of the fishery and to raise the profile of the river Neath bringing visiting anglers to the area and bolstering the local economy.