Exciting improvements coming to the Chess Valley Walk
An exciting project is underway to restore the River Chess, improve access along the Chess Valley Walk and enhance the surrounding landscape for wildlife and local communities.
The Chilterns Chalk Streams Project has begun work on two restoration projects along the River Chess, between Latimer and Chenies.
The projects will restore and enhance rare chalk stream habitat, helping to create a healthier, more natural river environment for the future.
The first phase of work will take place at Flaunden Brook, a tributary of the River Chess, before progressing downstream towards Church Covet.
The works will improve access along the Chess Valley Walk by resurfacing sections of the path and bridleway and installing two new boardwalks.
River improvements include de-culverting and restoration of the Flaunden Brook, reinstatement of eroded banks, creation of a new connecting channel on the Chess and more than 2000 sqm of temporary wetland areas.
These improvements will significantly reduce flooding along the Chess Valley Walk while also providing valuable new habitats for wildlife and helping two chalk streams to function more naturally. Together, the projects represent a positive step forward in protecting and restoring the special chalk stream landscape of the river Chess.
Flaunden Brook site where work is underway to re-meander and de-culvert sections of the river and create new wetland habitat.
Temporary footpath and bridleway changes
While the long-term benefits of the restoration will be significant, there will be some temporary disruption along the Chess Valley Walk while the work is carried out.
Some sections may be temporarily closed or diverted, and there may be short delays around the working areas. Visitors are asked to follow on-site signage and diversion routes and take care around the works.
The programme is expected to take approximately eight weeks, subject to weather, ground conditions and any unforeseen site constraints.
Thank you for your patience and understanding while this important work takes place. We’re excited to see the River Chess and its surrounding landscape restored and enhanced for wildlife and people to enjoy for years to come.
For detailed footpath closure information and diversion information please visit: https://www.chilterns.org.uk/map_marker/chess-valley-walk/
If you have any queries about the works, please contact chalkstreams@chilterns.org.uk.
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