HEARTBROKEN locals have called on a company to keep a lifesaving ramp in situ for ducklings at a reservoir - after more fell to their deaths.

Having successfully campaigned for a ramp to be installed at Scout Dike’s stilling ponds in 2023 - after years of seeing ducklings become stranded - the structure is removed during winter months when water levels rise.

However, despite being well into the spring, Yorkshire Water took until this week to reinstate the ramp - and locals have reported that at least two families’ ducklings have been wiped out.

The Chronicle can confirm that levels had to plunge a metre before work commenced following a public outcry.

Councillor Hannah Kitching, who represents Penistone West, said: “I’ve been down there at times when ducklings are trapped and they genuinely can’t get out.

“It’s just heartbreaking to see for people - once they fall, they can’t get out.

“The mums become distressed having called them, they struggle, panic and get to the point where they’re too tired.

“I equally understand that Yorkshire Water provide water for so many people and are tied with what they can change at the site.

“Unfortunately we were told that the water levels were still too high and that’s the reason why its reinstatement’s been delayed.

“However, a huge thanks and credit must go to Mark Spice and the other fabulous wildlife campaigners who have been relentless in making Yorkshire Water aware of this, as well as keeping an eye out for the baby ducks and making sure they can get to the safety of the river.

“And thank you Len Batty for allowing us access over his land - 11 ducklings were rescued as a result.

“We are going to keep on at Yorkshire Water to encourage them to continually review the ramps to make sure the ducklings and other wildlife can escape the ponds, especially in springtime.”

Penistone resident Len shared his concerns and urged Yorkshire Water to not delay future reinstatement work.

“This is the start of the duckling season and Yorkshire Water did not replace the rescue ramps that were removed last year,” he added.

“Excuses are not what the ducklings need, they need life.

“It’s time to forget profits.”

A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said the wetter winter had delayed plans to reinstall the ramp.

“We have discussed this with the local council, regarding the ramps that have been removed.

“We understand how upsetting this issue is and none of us want to see wildlife in distress.

“Unfortunately, we were unable to install the ramps at Scout Dike reservoir due to higher water levels which have been a result of a wetter winter and spring.

“The higher levels meant it was not safe for us to put the ramps in place.

“This is a functioning reservoir carrying out its intended purpose of storing drinking water for parts of South Yorkshire and managing flow of water further downstream.

“We are therefore unable to obstruct the spillway in any way as this could increase the risk of flooding.

“Our teams regularly check the safety of our reservoirs and should they see wildlife in distress, will do what they can to protect them.”