Seagrass plants feared dead survived winter

Seagrass planted at the River Aln survived the winter and is healthy and growing — a promising sign for the restoration trial.
Results were mixed elsewhere: Wansbeck plantings failed and Jarrow is uncertain after mud coverage, highlighting the practical challenges.
The work is part of the Defra-funded Stronger Shores project exploring nature-based coastal protection; fieldwork wraps up this year and researchers are optimistic.