For those not able to join us last week, or those who’d like a recap on what was an excellent conference discussing the recent “National Chalk Stream Restoration Strategy” with it’s lead Charles Rangeley-Wilson, and panel of sector leaders chaired by our Patron Earl Howe.
Cat Moncrieff
Chiltern Society Host
Richard Aylard
External Affairs and Sustainability Director, Thames Water
Stuart Ledger
Interim CEO, Affinity Water
Elaine King
Chief Executive, Chilterns Conservation Board
Sam Lumb
Environment Agency Area Director, Hertfordshire and North London
Paul Hickey
Managing Director of RAPID, the Regulators Alliance for Progressing Infrastructure Development
Charles Rangeley-Wilson
Author of the Chalk Stream Restoration Strategy
It was encouraging to hear from these partners about the progress being made in the Chilterns, since our first chalk stream conference over 2 years ago. There was also a sense of momentum behind a joined-up, strategic approach to tackle some of the root causes of over-abstraction and sewage pollution. Cat Moncrieff, our trustee who oversees the Society’s chalk stream work, will be bringing together this group to ensure this momentum is maintained, the issues raised are addressed and that flowing, sparkling chalk streams become a reality in our lifetimes.
One of the hot topics of the day was how we reduce our high water consumption, which I’m hoping we can announce some progress on very shortly.
It was also obvious that all are looking for leadership from Central Government, which I’m pleased to say has already been picked up by three of our local MPs. I personally hope they heard that we all expect developers to build homes to high water efficiency standards, and pay for the increased capacity required in the sewer system.
Please email us to receive a copy of the conference slides.
Tom Beeston
Chief Officer at the Chiltern Society
