New planning guidance launched to protect fragile chalk streams

We are excited to launch the Chilterns Chalk Streams Planning Guidance, a first-of-its-kind document in England, created to help protect and restore the globally rare chalk streams that flow through the Chilterns National Landscape.

Developed in consultation with a wide range of  stakeholders, this new guidance aims to support better planning decisions to safeguard these fragile freshwater ecosystems for future generations.

Why It Matters

Chalk streams are often described as England’s “rainforests” – globally rare, ecologically rich, and deeply connected to the Chilterns’ natural and cultural heritage. However, they are under increasing pressure from development, pollution, over-abstraction, and climate change.

This guidance offers a way forward; a set of practical recommendations for planners, developers, and communities to ensure these precious rivers are properly considered and protected in the planning system.

What the Guidance Covers:

• Why chalk streams matter – and their protection under the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023.
• Key planning principles to avoid harm and support positive outcomes for river health and biodiversity.
• Policy recommendations for Local and Neighbourhood Plans, covering water use, biodiversity, sustainable drainage, and development buffers.
• Practical steps for mitigating abstraction, surface water pollution, sewage discharge, and habitat restoration.

This document will be particularly useful for those involved in environmental planning, policy development, and local nature recovery.

Read the Chalk Streams Planning Guidance