Hampshire's Hermitage Stream runs for seven kilometres from its source in Cowplain, through the town of Havant where it flows into Langstone Harbour.
In the past, the Hermitage Stream was heavily modified with concrete walls and an artificially straightened channel. The modifications date back to the 1950s, when a large housing development was built in Leigh Park. These modifications have affected the natural functioning of the stream and have reduced the diversity of wildlife and habitats.
Restoration plans
We want to improve the water environment of the Hermitage Stream by restoring the stream to its natural state. We plan to do this by removing concrete walls where possible, and reinstating old meanders.
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In 2000, we worked with Havant Borough Council to restore the Purbrook Way reach. We are now planning to restore another four reaches of the Hermitage Stream.
As a result of the findings from the initial stage of the project, we have decided to focus on the two reaches at Bushy Lease and Park Community School first. We will need to explore opportunities to secure further funding for the construction stage.
Work so far
We have been doing lots of technical work, including baseline environmental surveys. We also carried out site investigations in summer 2012. This was to make sure we know about the current ground conditions, the location of underground services and any other environmental issues that need to be taken into account. We sent a newsletter to residents who could have been temporarily affected by this work.
Next steps
Local knowledge and input from the community is important in helping us decide what the Hermitage Stream should look like. We plan to hold two public exhibitions to show our proposals and to ask you for your ideas.
Public exhibitions
- The Dickenson Centre, Park Community School on Wednesday 26 June, 4pm to 7pm
- Bushy Lease Open Space on Thursday 27 June, 4pm to 7pm
It is important to understand that the construction stage is dependent on the availability of funding.
We will publish more information on this web page, including a newsletter and documents for public consultation.
Contact us
You can email the project team:
Or write to us at:
Hermitage Stream Project Team
Fisheries and Biodiversity
Environment Agency
Romsey District Office
Canal Walk
Romsey
Hampshire
SO51 7LP
