Warning as otters return to town river

Otters have returned to Kidderminster and are thought to be resting up in culverts leading from the River Stour beneath town centre buildings.

But officials are concerned that redevelopment plans for the town centre could frighten them away.

Now a trained ecologist is to be recruited to survey the area before work begins on a redevelopment scheme.

Brintons Ltd, a carpet manufacturer, is quitting its town centre offices in Exchange Street and planning permission has been given for the premises to be turned into 60 extra care flats for over 55s.

The River Stour flows into a culvert beneath the building and this is thought to be used by otters. Now checks are to be made to ensure the creatures are not disturbed.

The culvert, known as the Dye House culvert, was originally constructed to drain Brinton's carpets site.

In a report to Wyre Forest District Council, conservation and countryside officials have said "otters are well known to be using Kidderminster town centre and are thought to be breeding".

Otters have been seen lying up within the culvert by Environment Agency officials.

Officials have called for a trained ecologist to be brought in to survey the site before work begins.