Richmond Council has announced the completion of restoration works at Mereway Nature Park, bringing new wetland habitats and improved biodiversity to the Lower Crane river.

The project, delivered in partnership with a number of environmental organisations, has restored a vital stretch of the river and created more space for wildlife to flourish.

The Mereway Nature Park River Restoration Project was a collaboration between:

• EMpower
• The Environment Agency
• The Zoological Society of London
• Friends of the River Crane Environment
• Crane Valley Community Interest Company
• Salix River and Wetland Services

To enhance the river's natural flow, around 30 metres of concrete were removed from the riverbank to create a wetland embayment, providing new feeding and nesting areas for waterfowl and other wildlife.

On the opposite bank, a raised section was constructed using rock-rolls and pre-planted mats to encourage further habitat growth.

To improve conditions for aquatic life, gravel beds and wooden baffles were added to the riverbed, creating shallow, fast-flowing areas where fish can spawn and freshwater invertebrates can thrive.

For safety reasons and to allow the new habitat to establish undisturbed, the wetland area has been temporarily fenced off.

However, visitors can still enjoy enhanced views of the river from the top of the bank.

The Council said the project forms part of its wider commitment to protecting and enhancing Richmond's green and blue spaces, supporting biodiversity and improving local water quality.

Residents are also being encouraged to get involved in caring for nature across the borough this autumn.

On Saturday, 15 November, local charity Habitats & Heritage will be hosting a tree planting day at Oldfield Meadow in Hampton, where volunteers can help plant native trees to support wildlife and create a lasting green legacy for future generations.

Then on Thursday, 27 November, Friends of Street Trees will hold a community evening at St James's Church in Hampton Hill, inviting residents to share ideas and learn how to help make their neighbourhoods greener.

The Council said: "Your small actions can make a big difference. By volunteering to help maintain habitats, joining planting days, or supporting local wildlife, we can all help maintain our beautiful natural spaces."

For more information about upcoming volunteering opportunities, visit Habitats & Heritage or contact the Friends of Street Trees group.

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