Scotsbridge Bank Restoration and Habitat Creation Project – One Year On

An update from Rory Shenton & Francesca Cohen of Three Rivers District Council

Last year the restoration of a 500m stretch of the River Chess at Scotsbridge was completed by Three Rivers District Council. The aim of the project was to protect the river from further bank erosion and create a safe, green space for visitors to enjoy, whilst enhancing the ecologically unique chalk stream habitat.

Natural materials, woody habitat structures and flow deflectors were all installed to reinforce the banks and diversify the direction of flow. Two gravel margins were also created, where erosion was particularly significant, to help alleviate the pressure of the riverbanks, and tree works were undertaken to open the river to sunlight.

This has subsequently allowed native and ecologically important vegetation to thrive, including the transplanted yellow flag iris, a favourite source of food and shelter to the nationally endangered water vole.

One Year On - The Results

One year on from the project’s completion and we have seen a remarkable growth in bank vegetation, with the roots of these plants helping to stabilise the bank and offering protection against future deterioration.  

Prior to the project’s completion, the area surrounding the river regularly flooded over the winter. But thanks to the bank restoration, flooding significantly decreased last winter.

A Haven for Endangered Water Voles

Throughout the project, water voles were found along the river, with the River Chess being a key remaining stronghold for the species. A year on from the works and water voles have been spotted moving to their improved habitat.

Project Sponsors

The project was funded by Thames Water River Chess through the Smarter Water Catchment, as well as the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, working in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council’s Countryside Management Service

Photo Credits - Francesca Cohen