11. How to manage more water on Singlers Marsh?

Themes: Flow; Water Quality, Habitats and Wildlife; People

Objectives:

  • That there is adequate flow along the length of the river to support a 'good status' chalk stream ecology (as defined by Water Framework Directive)
  • That whatever the flow level, the river and its associated habitats, including banks and floodplains, are managed to support chalk stream species

Project description

When Fulling Mill pumping station closes it is likely that there will be more water on the Marsh. This project looks at how this opportunity can be used best for the community, the river and its wildlife.

Historically, the Mimram used to overflow regularly onto Singler's Marsh. Groundwater rose to flood the northern secion of the Marsh and fill the old Drain. Now it only occurs after prolonged periods of heavy rainfall. However with the prospect of Fulling Mill pumping station closing, this situation could occur more frequently.

 

So how to make the most of this new situation? The community still needs to be able to use the Marsh and houses need to avoid being flooded. However, among other ideas there could also be the opportunity to take overflow water and create a wetland nature reserve in the old Drain which would increase community awareness and involvement as well as providing additional wetland habitats for wildlife and improve the quality of the river.

 

Affinity Water are chairing a series of workshops with WelHat BC and key stakeholders to develop a series of options for consultation.

 

Grid reference: TL22791667
Project lead: Affinity Water
Project partners: Welwyn Hatfield Council; Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust; Environment Agency, Friends of the Mimram, Singlers Marsh residents
Project start: 2015
Contact for more information: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
New Nature Reserve at Singler's Marsh

Design by LTD Design Consultants and build by Garganey Consulting.