Plans suggest the Woodmill hydro barrage will look something like the Barrage de Saint Maur Des Fossés in the south eastern suburbs of Paris (France). Photo under CC2 by besopha
The Woodmill hydro electric scheme – now due for completion by September 2014 – may also be required to incorporate a much needed park and ride facility to reduce traffic congestion on Cobden Bridge when Woodmill Bridge finally closes to traffic next year.
“When Woodmill Bridge shuts, research shows the effect on Cobden Bridge will be significant,” said a New Southampton Partnership spokesperson. “That’s why we’re recommending that the existing Woodmill car park, and holes one and eighteen of the golf course, are made into a new park and ride facility.”
The result will be possibly a unique 16-hole course, although what will happen to the putting green and Woodmill play area, opened by Chris Packham in January 2011, remains unclear.
It’s expected that the hydro scheme will bring a significant boost to the city’s economy while at the same time reducing its carbon footprint – although as reported previously, environmentalists have slated the plans, saying the effect on fish and birds – particularly the population of local waders – will be catastrophic.
Double high tide advantage
The Woodmill scheme will employ the ‘run-of-the-river’ hydro electric method, requiring little or no reservoir capacity, and take advantage of Southampton’s unique double high tide to maximise output – although it’s expected that the existing salmon pool will also have to go, as it will be required as an essential ‘cooling off’ area.
Waders photo under CC2 by Keith Williamson