Engineering Works at Holm Farm, River NIth

During the late autumn 2010 the Nith Board were contacted by Network Rail regarding proposed engineering works to arrest the effects of erosion at the Holm Farm on Cowhill Estate.  The river has been changing course over recent years to the point where it is now severely impacting on the Carlisle – Kilmarnock railway line on the west side of the River Nith.  The contractors engaged to conduct the bank repairs, plan to install temporary piles to prevent further erosion then place longer permanent piles to secure a long term solution.

These types of engineering works in close proximity to the river channel can be detrimental to the fish and other species in the aquatic environment and NDSFB is working closely with others to ensure that impacts are minimised.  Of major concern to the Board is the impact of vibration on spawning salmonids in the immediate vicinity of the works.  The Board is working with the contractors, BAM Nuttall Ltd and Network Rail on a suite of mitigation measures to help minimise potential impacts in the fish community.