Chilterns Chalk Streams Project set to ‘Mend the Misbourne’

Together with match funding from partners, the £1.7 million initiative will deliver a wide range of projects over the next five years aimed at improving the health of the river and its surrounding catchment, in addition to supporting local communities to connect with and enjoy this rare and special habitat.  

Despite significant efforts to improve the River Misbourne since the 1990s, its health has continued to suffer. Under pressure from sewage pollution, toxic chemicals in road-runoff, low flows and flooding, habitat loss, and the construction of major infrastructure, the river is currently assessed as being of ‘poor ecological status’.  

The programme came about in response to growing calls from local communities for a plan to ‘Mend the Misbourne’. As a result, in 2024, the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project convened a series of workshops, bringing together local community groups, conservation charities, local and county councils, water companies, and the Environment Agency. Collectively, they developed an evidence-based catchment plan for the river. 

This funding will enable us – through working in partnership – to realise a long-held ambition to restore the River Misbourne to full health. Work will focus on four key areas – improving flows, improving water quality, nature recovery, and involving people.  

Allen Beechey, Chilterns Chalk Streams Project Manager said:  

“We are very excited to have secured this funding for Mending the Misbourne. For the last five years we have worked on a similar project in the Chess Valley that, through significant investment from partners, has had a massive beneficial impact on that river and its catchment. We are looking forward to working with local stakeholders to replicate this approach for the Misbourne and reverse the fortunes of this special chalk stream.” 

Bob Older, coordinator of Misbourne River Action said:  

“We are delighted by this announcement and look forward to continuing to work alongside CCSP and other partners in developing and implementing projects to secure these vital improvements to the River Misbourne and its catchment area, building on the excellent work in the Chess Valley.” 

Dr Elaine King, Chief Executive Officer at the Chilterns National Landscape, said: 

“Chalk streams are globally rare and threatened habitats and we are fortunate to have nine of them in the Chilterns. They all deserve to be cared for as one of the jewels in the Chilterns crown and this project will be a gamechanger following years of decline. It’s also another example of the power of collaboration between a wide range of organisations, coming together with local communities, all of whom care deeply about the River Misbourne. 

Securing this funding is a credit to the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project team, who, alongside their colleagues at the Chilterns National Landscape, are thrilled at the opportunity to secure a bright future for one of the Chilterns’ precious chalk streams.”