River Restoration at Chesham Moor
The river restoration was completed in December 2024 and works included several improvements to the section of the Chess going through Chesham Moor.
The project
Re-naturalisation of the area.
This was done by removing the concrete banks and reinstating a channel that is characteristic of more natural chalk streams. The works removed 80 tons of concrete creating more natural looking banks and a more energetic channel.
Access
Replacement of the concrete foot bridge with one that allows safe, step-free access across the channel for parents with children and those with mobility impairments.
Sustainable Drainage System
Creation of a reed-bed sustainable drainage system at the confluence of the side stream and the main river, to trap pollutants washing into the river from Bois Moor road and provide safer access to the river for families and school groups.
Access to the stream
Installation of a new, gravel, sloped access-ramp – a gravel ‘beach’- at the confluence of the side stream and the main river, to allow safer access to the stream for families and school groups.
Wildflower planting
Supplementary planting post-work to encourage and speed up recovery of the site.
The model was based and developed taking on board feedback from local businesses, residents, Chesham Athletic, Chesham Town Council, Buckinghamshire Council and the Environment Agency and several steps were necessary before works could commence.
Extensive flood modelling had taken place in the months prior the delivery to prevent any increase in flood risk in the local area as a result of the works.
As a site of historical interest, an archaeologist was employed during the early digging phase and available throughout the project to provide a watching brief, advice and support.
The channel work was undertaken at a time of the year so to minimise the impact on the local ecology, including the brown trout and water voles that inhabit the main river Chess.
The work has created a natural amenity for the local community to enjoy as well as providing habitat for water vole, brown trout and other river creatures. Post-restoration surveys have confirmed that trout and water voles are already using the newly restored section of the river, which is providing a safer and more suitable habitat.
Modular River surveys and Riverfly surveys are also regularly conducted on this section of the river Chess to monitor the impact the restoration has had on the stream’s wildlife and ecosystem.
The future ongoing management plan for the site has been agreed with Chesham Town Council and will involve support from the Chesham Environmental Group.
The project has been developed by the Chilterns Chalk Streams Project and the Chiltern Society in partnership with Chesham Town Council and the Environment Agency. The project was delivered by Maydencroft Ltd. and it has was made possible thanks to grants from the Heritage Lottery, DEFRA’s Access Fund and Chesham Town Council’s Mayoral Fund, and additional funding from Affinity Water Ltd.
