Our plans are still taking shape, but we’re exploring a range of natural flood management measures designed to slow the flow of water, enrich habitats, and strengthen the woodland. Some of the ideas on the table include:
- Soil Aeration – Slitting meadow soils to help rainwater soak in more easily and increase the land’s ability to hold water.
- Cross‑Contour Brash Lines – Laying bundles of branches on steep slopes to slow down runoff and protect the soil.
- Footpath Drainage Improvements – Making paths easier to walk while capturing sediment and managing surface water.
- Flood Storage Wetland – Creating a shallow basin that stores water during heavy rain and becomes a vibrant wildflower habitat.
- Leaky Dams – Adding carefully placed woody material to slow peak flows and create more diverse river habitats.
- Woody Material in Side Streams – Positioning small felled trees in side channels to slow fast flows and introduce natural debris.
- Peak Flow Diversion Logs – Using logs to gently redirect floodwater across the woodland floor while creating valuable decaying wood habitat.
We’re aiming to deliver this project in early 2026, working hand‑in‑hand with volunteers, local groups, and skilled contractors.
The consultation has now closed and we want to thank everyone who took part for their contributions. It will take us a little while to process what we have heard and we will publish the output as soon as we can.
Meanwhile, you can still click on the image below to explore our thinking so far about what we might do by way of Natural Flood Management work along Northcliffe Dyke.
