Wessex Water is starting work today on the next phase of river enhancement works for the River Anton along Western Avenue in Andover.
These works are scheduled to start on 15 June and are scheduled to be completed by 31 July 2026.
Following vegetation and tree management earlier this year, the next stage focuses on improving the river channel itself. This includes carefully placing gravel within the river, creating natural features such as berms, pools, and riffles.
The enhancements will:
improve habitats for fish, including spawning areas
support the return of natural chalk stream processes
build on recent improvements delivered at College Weir, Folly Park, and Charlton Road
Christopher Woolhouse, Water Resources Environmental Resilience Strategy Manager at Southern Water said:
“The improvements form part of a wider effort to restore the river through the centre of Andover.”
“These enhancement works to improve the ecological resilience of the Upper River Anton along Western Avenue will importantly link up with Southern Water’s river restoration works at Folly Park and along Charlton Road, resulting in a total reach of 1.2km of enhanced chalk river through the centre of Andover.”
At times during construction, the river may appearing temporarily cloudy or light brown in colour, rather than its usual clear appearance. This is a natural and expected effect caused by sediment being disturbed as part of the improvement works.
This discolouration:
is similar to what naturally occurs after periods of heavy rain
will reduce as sediment settles and disperses downstream
is not linked to wastewater activity or spills
To minimise and manage this, a range of robust measures will be in place, including sediment mats, natural barriers, and silt curtains. In addition, daily water quality monitoring will be undertaken throughout the project to ensure conditions remain safe for fish and other wildlife.
For reassurance, Wessex Water has confirmed that there are no Southern Water wastewater assets or outfalls upstream or near the work area.
Overall, this is a significant investment in Andover’s natural environment, delivering long-term ecological benefits and improving the health and resilience of the River Anton for future generations.
The works are scheduled to be completed by 31 July 2026.
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