A Riverside Setting

The Dee Runs By

The River Dee runs along the northern edge of the park. Between Handbridge and the city the river flows through a narrow gap cut into a sandstone ridge. This gap has been modified from Roman times because of quarrying (not just in Edgar's Field but at other places along the riverside) and in later years by embankments along Castle Drive and The Groves.

A River of Natural Importance

The Dee is of national and international importance being designated both as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) (external link) and a European Special Area of Conservation (SAC)  (external link). It is notified as a SSSI because of its range of river types and as an ecosystem for migratory fish. The section next to Edgar's Field is tidal so that the water level changes throughout the day. High tides are able to pass over the nearby weir. One important aspect of both designations is the presence in the river of the Atlantic Salmon (Salmo salar). These fish migrate from the sea up the Dee to spawn (release their eggs and breed) in its upper tributaries in Wales. Salmon and other fish were the basis of the local fishing industry.

 

 

Geography for a Fortress

The course of the Dee and the presence of the sandstone ridge provided a good location for the Romans to build their legionary fortress Deva. This was named after the local Celtic name of the river which meant 'goddess' or 'holy one'. From this is also derived the modern name of the river - 'Dee'.