A PIONEERING project to build a new habitat for protected fish is nearing completion in Hampshire.

The Environment Agency (EA) project is creating a 28-metre pass to enable fish to access a chalk stream habitat in the River Hamble that has been blocked off for 250 years by historic work at Botley Mill.

Eastleigh MP Chris Huhne and Eastleigh Borough Council leader Keith House visited the landmark project – the first of its kind in the UK – which is due to be completed this week.

Protected species, including sea trout, will be able to access the chalk stream habitat when the new stateof- the-art fish pass is complete.

The habitat was blocked off by work at the flour mill. It is believed that milling took place there for more than 1,000 years.

The Hamble fish pass contains upright stones to create the tossing white water that the fish like, interspersed with tranquil pools where they can rest.

James Humphrys, EA area manager, said: “We are working with water companies, industry, landowners and our partners to actively tackle the challenges that still remain.”

Cllr House said: “This will preserve the historic Botley Mill but also restore the Hamble’s eco-system.”