Habitat Regeneration, in partnership with FGS Pilcher, the South East Rivers Trust, and with financial support from Sainsbury’s, is proud to deliver its latest wetland project at Coldharbour Farm—home to our managing director, Will Fraser.
Project Overview
This innovative scheme focuses on sustainable water management and ecological enhancement, utilising nature-based solutions to create a 1900m² wetland feature. The project, which aims to increase biodiversity, control flow, and improve water retention, is a prime example of how collaborative efforts may result in significant environmental impact.
Key Features and Sustainable Solutions
The project involved stripping approximately 150mm of topsoil from a 1900m² wetland area and 4000m² of surrounding fields. The surplus soil was repurposed to restore field levels and enhance the landscape. To manage water flow, three clay plugs were installed in the northern ditch to slow the flow and promote wetland formation. Additionally, a 125m key trench was excavated to remove existing land drains, preventing water bypass and ensuring natural infiltration.
Surplus clay was used to construct a berm and a shallow bund that direct overland flows into the wetland, supporting sustainable water management. A 150mm twin-wall pipe outlet was installed, designed at a 1:150 gradient with an invert level of 33.5m AOD to regulate water levels and ensure effective drainage.
For habitat enhancement, a fallen oak tree was integrated into the wetland feature. The ambition is to introduce three spined stickle back and minnows as a food source for kingfisher. Hopefully the fish use the submerged tree as a feature to shelter around and the kingfisher uses the branches as a hunting perch.
Environmental Impact and Future Potential
This initiative uses nature-based, low-impact solutions that have a significant positive influence on the environment. By creating habitats for aquatic and avian species, it improves water retention, reduces the risk of flooding, and boosts biodiversity. It also establishes the groundwork for the establishment of future habitats.
We are eager to see how the Coldharbour Farm Wetlands develop over time and support ecological resilience in the area. To discover more about our wetland creation and restoration services, explore more on our webpage.