Hampshire Councillors Unite to Protect Rare Chalk Streams

Many Hampshire councillors want to protect chalk streams. They asked the government to rethink its plans, fearing the changes weaken safeguards. The Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust agrees. They joined 215 councillors in a letter asking the government to protect chalk streams. The letter went to Angela Rayner and Steve Reed.

People worry the government will drop the Chalk Stream Recovery Pack. This pack protects important chalk stream habitats. Councillors from many areas support better protection. East Hampshire, Hart, and Winchester councillors signed, as did Rushmoor and Basingstoke & Deane councillors.

They all want stronger chalk stream protection. Hampshire has many of these rare streams. The Meon, Itchen, and Test rivers are key examples. These rivers and their streams have unique ecosystems. A new Planning and Infrastructure Bill proposes changes. The HIOWWT’s chief executive supports the united effort.

Many councillors signed the Wildlife Trust’s letter. Rob Mocatta and Ginny Boxall are two Hampshire councillors. Councillors show that they support the protection. Chalk streams are rare and important ecosystems. These streams are beautiful and full of life.

Their future is uncertain. Strong, specific protection is vital. Planning policies must protect them; without these, damage is possible. Several East Hampshire councillors signed the letter. Louise Bevan and John Hutchinson are on the list, along with Roger Mullenger and Anthony Williams. David Podger and Emily Young supported it. John Smart, Barbara Tansey, and David Evans joined them.

Two Hampshire County councillors signed as well: Rob Mocatta representing Petersfield Butser, and Debbie Curnow-Ford representing Liphook, Headley, and Grayshott. Councillors from Alresford, Meon Valley, and Odiham signed it. Crookham and Ewshot councillors joined, and some Aldershot councillors supported the letter.

Councillor Malcolm Wallace says more action is needed. He represents Central Meon Valley. Only 15% of chalk streams are healthy, and 85% of these streams exist only in England. They have very special freshwater ecosystems.

The Meon River flows through his area. It is a vital chalk stream facing threats. Volunteers work hard to maintain it. He thinks the government action is needed to protect these streams in order to protect biodiversity for future generations.

The HIOWWT states strong protection is crucial. Without it, the government may fail. They have legal targets to recover nature and promised to protect 30% of waters by 2030.