Coldham's Brook Restoration

💧Abbey People are supporting the City Council to run some Coldham's Brook restoration sessions on Monday 23rd, Tuesday 24th and Friday 27th Feb, 10am – 2pm.

☑️Task We’ll be supporting the Greater Cambridge Chalk Stream Project staff and the City Council Nature Reserve Officer with hands-on chalk stream restoration works. Activities will include:

• Installing pre-planted coir rolls within the channel to help focus flows, trap fine sediment, and improve in-stream habitat.

• Assisting with brash bundles and simple log flow deflectors to encourage natural channel processes such as scour, cleaner gravels, and habitat diversity.

• Helping with bankside works, including installing brushwood shelves and hazel panelling to stabilise eroding banks, reduce sediment input, and support bankside vegetation establishment.

• Some light planting and positioning of natural materials, always working alongside experienced staff who will guide activities on the day.

All tools, equipment, waders, and wellies will be provided. Please provide your foot size in the poll below so we can make sure suitable waders and wellies are available.

No prior experience is required, and tasks can be adapted to suit different confidence and ability levels. A reasonable level of mobility is helpful, but people will not be expected to do anything beyond what they are comfortable with.

Sessions will typically run 10am – 2pm and refreshments and lunch will be provided. It should be a relaxed, friendly work-party atmosphere as well as a good opportunity for volunteers and ARU students to gain practical river restoration experience.

📌 Location Coldham’s Brook sessions will focus on the Abbey Pool area. On arrival please park bikes / cars at Abbey Leisure Complex and walk to the splash pad behind Abbey Pool where we’ll be working: map

👉 Please fill out this poll if you would like to be involved Poll: chalk stream work days

NB This task is set for Monday 23rd Feb, but please do attend a different session if preferable, making sure you complete the form to be sent details nearer the time.