Restoring the River Ribble at Long Preston
14 January 2011
Natural England and Environment Agency come up with a joint plan to protect this special area.
The stunning 7km stretch of the River Ribble from Settle to just above Cow Bridge, near Long Preston, is designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it is one of our very best sites for wildlife. It is an important area for breeding birds and the high water quality supports a host of game and coarse fish, including important migratory species.
Natural England is responsible for assessing the quality and condition of SSSIs. The last condition assessment showed that a significant area of this stretch of river is now classed as ‘unfavourable’. Over time, areas of the river and floodplain have been modified. This has resulted in the river banks and surrounding grassland areas, which support wildlife, being degraded.
Natural England and the Environment Agency have therefore commissioned a river restoration plan, which will be essential to protect the future of this unique area and the wildlife found there.
The final plan is now available
We would like to thank all the landowners for kindly allowing access to the area for surveys as well as the individuals and groups who have provided essential and valuable information.
The restoration of the River Ribble at Long Preston is ongoing. Land owner permission and further consultation with land managers and stakeholders will be required, prior to any restoration work being carried out.
Long Preston Deeps SSSI River Restoration Plan: (7.51mb)
Final Report, December 2010Appendix A - Geomorphology, Engineering and Stability: (2.29mb)
