National Trust’s proposal for a new fish and eel pass to be integrated into Arlington Court’s lake outlet has been approved by North Devon Council. The collaborative design approach involved National Trust, Nicholas Pearson Associates, Nicholas Pearson Partnership and engineers JBA Consulting.

Habitat Enhancements to be integrated within a Historic Landscape

The approved proposal includes modifications to the historic dam structure at Arlington Court. Providing important habitat enhancement to the SSSI through the integration of a fish and eel pass within the historic structure. The modifications will also assist silt management within the historic lake-bed where willow carr of varying age supports a wide variety of protected lichen species. The parkland, lake and part of the river valley, form part of the Arlington SSSI. Designated for its rich lichen flora and rare invertebrate assemblages, including national rarities. “The dam re-opening over six kilometres of the River Yeo to endangered Atlantic salmon and European eel for the first time in nearly 200 years, allowing them to reach historic spawning grounds.” 

Historic Setting

The distinctive early nineteenth century lake forms part of the river Yeo which being on-line with the river, means it is prone to high levels of siltation. Whilst siltation has always been a feature of Arlington lake, siltation has been exacerbated by climate change intense rainfall events to the point where the lake is largely un-recognisable today. It sits within the setting of Grade II* Arlington Court, (also the home of the National Trust Carriage Museum,) and is also a Registered Park and Gardens of Special Historic Interest, Grade II*. The property has dramatic topography, delightful historic carriage drives, woodlands, pasture and curious ruins – un-finished bridge piers. The property was gifted to National Trust in 1949 by Rosalie Chichester who was deeply interested in nature and landscape. Being a keen photographer, she provided the design team with many helpful resources.

Design Approach

Close collaboration between heritage, landscape, environmental and engineering specialists has been essential. Through this approach, design parameters were defined to ensure the design outcomes are technically, aesthetically and ecologically sound. We have developed solutions in response to the historic and dynamic setting. Thorough appraisal and feasibility studies from the outset informed the proposals. The resulting design maintains the distinctive character of the landscape of the dam, whilst delivering environmental and climate change resilient benefits.

Landscape Architecture and Visualisation Expertise

Nicholas Pearson Associates provided Landscape Architecture expertise for the project since early 2023 when we first provided landscape feasibility advice. Our role has facilitated striking the balance between landscape, heritage, ecology and engineering needs to respond to the brief and climate change pressures. Ecological and woodland management considerations have been integrated within the design, which also allows for the curation of woodland view lines, restoration of historic footpaths and the addition of wayfinding and interpretation information.

We have provided visualisations to test design options throughout the design process. A suite of landscape design documentation, including habitat enhancements was prepared and final verified views provided to inform the planning application.

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