CONSTRUCTION has been completed on a fish refuge at Spennells Valley Nature Reserve in Kidderminster.

Consisting of three pools, the refuge will provide a habitat for the fish populations within the Hoo Brook and River Stour, allowing them to reproduce and thrive.

The refuge has been constructed and funded by the Environment Agency in partnership with Wyre Forest District Council to help improve the fish populations.

Brecht Morris, fisheries and biodiversity officer at the Environment Agency, said: “I am delighted to have been able to work with Wyre Forest District Council to create these refuges.

“It’s not just good news for the fish - it’s also great for the local community as we have installed a raised walkway, which improves access to enjoy Spennells Nature Reserve all year round.

“We also used waste material from the works to create a BMX track and I am sure the council will do a great job in maintaining this new local resource.”

The pools and surrounding land will be looked after by the ranger service from the district council, which will provide a sanctuary for wildlife in the urban landscape.

District Independent councillor Helen Dyke, cabinet member for operational services, said: “We are pleased to have worked with the Environment Agency to create this haven for wildlife.

“We look forward to attracting lots of interesting species.

“Visitors to the reserve should look out for otters, brown trout, kingfishers, yellow flag iris, purple loosestrife and great crested newts.”