Efforts to revive the existence of beavers in Sheffield and the surrounding areas are underway with the awarding of £96,725 to Sheffield City Council.

The council will work with neighbouring local authorities and agencies such as Natural England and The Environment Agency to gain a greater understanding of the benefits that beavers have on local landscapes.

The Yorkshire Regional Flood and Coastal Committee acquired the funding after the Government declared that licenses for the release of beavers into English waterways could be applied for by nature groups nationwide.

Beavers have been making a comeback in the last couple of decades after previously being hunted to extinction. It follows years of trials and research into the benefits of beavers returning to the nation.

This could benefit South Yorkshire by enhancing water quality and reducing flooding by “slowing the flow” of water during peak times. The habitats created by beavers support a wide range of wildlife, which would aid in addressing our nature and climate crises.

However, long term plans are being put in place to avoid impacts on farming, food production and infrastructure.

Kurtis Crossland, Chair of the Communities, Parks and Leisure Committee at Sheffield City Council, said: “We’ve seen the results of beaver introduction in other areas of the UK and the evidence shows how their natural skills can support our environment, our wildlife, and communities.

“We are looking forward to being able to bring you the latest updates from the experts as soon as we have them.”

The council have also partnered with Sheffield Hallam University to produce a documentary about the reintroduction of beavers into the local areas which will be then shown in schools and a number of community based viewing opportunities.

Image credit: Mike Symes, Devon Wildlife Trust