Mending the Misbourne
A major new project to help restore one of the Chilterns’ treasured chalk streams is now under way. Mending the Misbourne is a five-year programme led by the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project, working with local partners to improve the health of the River Misbourne and help more people connect with this special place.
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.
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