Environmental improvements completed on the River Colne at Radlett Road

Watford Borough Council has completed a major package of river restoration works at Radlett Road Recreation Ground, an important milestone in the council’s 10‑year ‘Rediscovering the River Colne’ project.

The works were delivered in partnership with Groundwork South and East and carried out by specialist environmental contractors Salix. This latest phase follows earlier improvements delivered at Knutsford South and Timberlake Allotments, where the River Colne Volunteers and Salix have already helped improve biodiversity and river health. Together, these efforts mean that 2.2km of the River Colne flowing through Watford has now been enhanced.

The project focused on restoring natural river processes, improving habitats, and making the river more enjoyable for everyone. Key improvements include:

• New low-level berms between the bank and water, creating space for plants to grow and providing better habitat for wildlife.

• Adding fallen and dead trees to the river, creating varied flows and shelter for fish and invertebrates. Wherever possible, existing fallen trees on site were reused.

• Regrading steep, eroded banks into gentler slopes, improving wildlife habitat—particularly for species such as water voles—while giving people better access and views of the riverside.

• Clearing dense brambles and vegetation and planting new trees to encourage a more diverse and healthier riverside environment.

• Creating shallow seasonal scrapes on the floodplain to store rainwater and floodwater and support amphibians, insects and wetland plants.

• Reopening historic channels and removing silt that had blocked natural links between the river, ponds and wider floodplain, allowing water and wildlife to move freely again.

These changes make this one of the most visible and important stretches of restored river in the town.

Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: “This is a fantastic milestone in our 10‑year plan to rediscover and restore the River Colne. The improvements at Radlett Road have transformed the river into a healthier, more natural space. We’re already seeing the benefits for wildlife, and it’s great to see more people enjoying this part of the park.”

Councillor Ian Stotesbury, Portfolio Holder for Transport and Sustainability, said: “Local volunteers have played a huge role in improving the Colne, from earlier works at Knutsford South and Timberlake Allotments to ongoing activities across the town. Projects like this show what we can achieve together. We’d love even more people to get involved, whether through hands‑on conservation, litter picking or helping us monitor wildlife.”

With the spring season beginning, this is a great time for residents to join the River Colne Volunteers. No experience is needed, and all equipment is provided.

To find out more about volunteering opportunities, click here