Chamber Mead Wetland Creation

Wetland Creation and River Restoration experts in design and delivery.

Only a few months on since we completed works at our Chamber Mead wetland project on behalf of South East Rivers Trust (SERT), and we returned recently to capture these images showing the development and establishment of the scheme. This comes after several volunteer planting days.

The scheme involved the diversion of Green Lanes Stream adjacent to Chamber Mead meadow through a newly natural wetland system comprising of a sediment trap, two wetlands (spanning 2,000m2) and connecting the new 120m channels before joining the Hogsmill River, downstream of the original confluence. The project was focused on improving the water quality of the stream whilst simultaneously improving the open space within the popular local nature reserve.

SERT alongside their partners Hogsmill Catchment Partnership, the Environment Agency and Epsom and Ewell Borough Council designed a scheme to improve water quality through the creation of a wetland system which will retain water and filter out impurities which are then captured in the soil.

FiveRivers worked with South East Rivers Trust on this scheme from 2022 undertaking early contractor involvement (ECI) to support with the design phase. Our Technical Lead attended site with SERT to discuss possible options and advise on the best option taking into consideration site and environmental constraints, allowed budget, project purpose and added value – what will deliver the best positive impact.

Working closely with the SERT, who designed the scheme, FiveRivers first implemented a footpath diversion around the works area to ensure public safety. 

Then, we began the excavation of the wetland cells, silt trap and connecting the channel. A new outfall was installed and an access route for the sediment trap was created. The features were lined with clay and channels lined with gravel. The Green Lane channel was blocked to finish the diversion, then seeding of the wildflower meadow was completed. 

As part of the works, FiveRivers also installed a new steel pedestrian bridge over one of the new channels as well as new benches and interpretation boards to improve access and encourage public engagement with the completed works

This project was part of a wider partnership between South East Rivers Trust and The Coca-Cola Foundation to help clean some of Britain’s most polluted rivers.

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