River Sid weir modified to improve upstream fish passage

The River Sid Catchment Group (RSCG) and Westcountry Rivers Trust have modified a weir near Roly Poly Field in the Byes, Sidmouth, by cutting a notch into it to create a more accessible route for fish.

RSCG chairman Charles Sinclair said: "It’s fantastic to be able to take this first important step in improving the health of the River Sid.

"By cutting a notch in the weir, we have created a much more fish-friendly route, the first step in enabling migrating species to access upstream habitats, including important breeding grounds."

The work forms part of the group’s wider efforts to address barriers along the River Sid and improve the ecological health of the catchment.

A barrier and habitat report produced by the Westcountry Rivers Trust in 2025 identified more than 102 barriers within the river system.

The trust has since developed a priority list highlighting barriers most in need of modification or adaptation.

Among the highest priorities is School Weir, near the Tollhouse, which currently presents a total barrier to endangered migratory species including Atlantic salmon and sea trout attempting to reach breeding grounds further upstream.

The RSCG is working with experts from the Westcountry Rivers Trust, Sidmouth Town Council, the Environment Agency, East Devon District Council and flood risk assessors to explore potential solutions for School Weir.

The conservation group also plans to hold another fish lift in the autumn to help migrating fish over School Weir and give them access to upstream breeding habitats.

People will be invited to attend and see the work taking place, with the next fish lift expected in late autumn.

The RSCG hopes the work at Roly Poly Field will be the first of a series of improvements to barriers throughout the River Sid catchment over the coming months and years.

More information about the River Sid Catchment Group and its conservation work is available at www.riversid.org.