The Strategic Framework for Restoration of the River Avon System
This project that builds upon the successes of the WCSP and STREAM to develop a strategy for restoration of the whole of the River Avon System SSSI. The project is being undertaken by contractors Halcrow and Geodata Institute (University of Southampton) on behalf of a partnership- the Environment Agency, Natural England and Wessex Water through the Wessex Chalk Stream Project.
The aim of the ‘strategy’ is to restore the River Avon to a naturally functioning and self sustaining river system that exhibits the full rage of characteristic habitats that benefit the distinctive chalk stream flora and fauna.
Our approach is to
- To review the historic information and to undertake a geomorphological audit of the river
- To determine the naturalness and degree of modification of the river at present
- To develop a ‘vision’ of what the ideal River Avon SSSI should look like through consultation and to meet its statutory targets for nature conservation
- To develop a costed and prioritised restoration plan to meet achieve that vision
In order to meet both the needs for wildlife and those who live on, use, farm or just enjoy the river, this strategy must be achievable and it must respect the long heritage of the River Avon. The public were therefore invited to attend a workshop and to comment on the draft reports during the consultation period.
The consultation of the draft document has now finished. final report is now available to download.
Download the non-technical summary or the technical report and appendices from the Geodata website
For more information contact Ruth Clarricoates the Wessex Chalk Streams project officer using the form below.
