27 improvement projects have been agreed that will seek to tackle pollution, boost wildlife, and increase the quality of life for locals living near it

The River Ching will benefit from 27 improvement projects that seek to tackle pollution, boost wildlife, and increase the quality of life for locals living near it.

The improvements, called the Ching Action Plan, come as a result of a collaboration between the Environment Agency, Waltham Forest Council, the Ching Action Group, City of London Corporation (Epping Forest), Ching Working Group, and the London Lea Catchment Partnership.

The Ching Brook, known locally as the River Ching or simply ‘the Ching’, originates as a small stream in Epping Forest and flows for approximately 10km through, and into, the River Lea.

Promising “significant benefits” for the local community, the plans include river channel restoration, tackling pollution from surface water outfalls, fish passes, pollution screens, installation of river telemetry and wildlife habitat improvement schemes.

As is the case with all north London rivers, the River Ching is heavily modified with multiple weirs, structures, culverts, and stretches of concrete channel. In places the river has been artificially straightened, widened, and deepened.

Water quality in the river is adversely affected due to household misconnections, sewage pollution, road run-off, rural sources and from nearby commercial activities.

Thames Water released sewage into the River Lea and its tributaries 1,060 times in 2023, according to the latest data.

Along the River Ching there were 67 spills last year compared to 65 in 2022.

The major hotspot on the River Ching is Beech Hall Crescent, just south of Highams Park, where all 67 of the spills in 2023 were recorded.

Lewis Elmes, Environment Agency Catchment Co-ordinator, said: “Our rivers are havens for wildlife and highly valued by local communities and visitors alike. Restoring them can bring huge benefits for nature, water quality and the local environment.

“We are looking forward to working with our partners and enthusiastic volunteer groups on such an important and rewarding series of projects and are considering a number of funding opportunities to begin this work.

“The future of the Ching depends on collective action and this partnership plan is a welcome step towards addressing the many pressures that this river faces.”

Cllr Clyde Loakes MBE, cabinet member for climate and air quality said: “We are delighted to be partnering with the Environment Agency and dedicated local organisations to improve waterways and boost biodiversity along the River Ching.

“The Ching stretches for around 10 kilometres through the borough and this exciting initiative will improve vital habitats, boost water quality, and cut pollution. It’s also yet another example of local residents literally rolling up their sleeves to take positive climate and biodiversity action in their neighbourhood.

“We already have a fantastic record in protecting and enhancing our local waterways. In 2017 we played a vital role in creating the largest urban wetlands nature reserve in Europe – Walthamstow Wetlands. Now its popularity with local people and flourishing wildlife serves as a blueprint for similar projects across the capital.

“Supporting and enhancing green and blue spaces in the borough is part of our Mission Waltham Forest commitment to tackle the climate crisis, work towards net-zero in carbon and improve biodiversity.”

To have your say on the Action Plan or to register your interest in forthcoming volunteer opportunities, please email: [email protected]

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