PLANS to rejuvenate one of the most degraded pieces of land in the region, and attract otters back to within a stone's throw of a major arterial route, have moved forward.

A major wildlife survey was launched, giving a clearer picture of the state of animal and insect life and fauna in the River Team catchment area, near the A1(M) in Gateshead.

The biodiversity audit which provides a baseline for future improvements, covers the main river corridor, which takes in the River Team, Rowletch Burn, Beamish Burn, Causey Burn, Houghwell Burn and Kyo Burn.

The project aims to redress the damage to the environment and improve the quality of life for local communities.

Spokesman Keith Bowey said: "The River Team catchment is one of the most degraded in terms of biodiversity in the region - but there is a great potential to make up and gain what has been lost."

The survey revealed no water voles - but otters were found at the confluence of the River Team with the Tyne.

Mr Bowey said: "Fifteen or 20 years ago, everyone would have said there was no hope of getting otters back into the catchment. Their presence now indicates there is great potential for improvement and hope for otters throughout the catchment in the next 15 or 20 years."