Rare chalk stream rerouted at park

Two new bridges were installed as the River Gade was rerouted through the centre of the park

A rare chalk stream has been rerouted to improve wildlife habitats and reduce the risk of localised flooding.

The River Gade, at Gadebridge Park in Hemel Hempstead, has been returned to its natural course after it was moved to supply water to the former Bury Mill.

The river restoration project in the Hertfordshire town was completed by the Environment Agency (EA) who worked with Dacorum Borough Council and Affinity Water.

Robin Bromham, Liberal Democrat portfolio holder for neighbourhood operations at Dacorum, said: "The return of the River Gade to its natural course not only restores an important ecosystem but also enhances the park experience for our residents and visitors."

The council was previously told the Gade was one of the "very few" chalk streams that exist around the world.

The artificial channel that had been cut caused the river to become disconnected, which the EA said led to water quality issues and limited biodiversity.

Two new footbridges, a gauging station, and an ultrasonic structure that allows fish and mammals to move freely were installed as part of the project.

A new river channel was created through the centre of the park during the project

Former Undertones singer Feargal Sharkey has been involved in a long-running campaign to preserve chalk streams.

• Listen: "We've destroyed our chalk streams," says Sharkey

• Listen: Sharkey's 'river ramble' with Clare Balding

The Chiltern Society said chalk streams played host to water vole, endangered in the UK, and brown trout.

Vegetation was created along the banks to provide habitat for different species including trout, water vole and otters.

Chris Wilson, area director at the EA, said: "Getting to this stage marks the huge collective effort of a large number of people.

"I'd like to thank everyone involved for their perseverance and commitment to bringing such a complex and ambitious project to completion."