Chalk streams: Basingstoke & Deane backs Rights of Rivers

Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council has backed a “Rights of Rivers” motion to strengthen protection for our locally important chalk streams – including the River Loddon and the River Test.

It’s a commitment to treat rivers as living ecosystems that deserve a stronger voice in decisions – especially when it comes to planning and development, and how we tackle pollution and over-abstraction.

The motion also commits the council to work with residents and partners to develop a local Declaration on the Rights of the River by spring 2026.

If you care about the health of our rivers, this is a really positive step. And if you spot pollution or anything that doesn’t look right, please report it to the Environment Agency (24-hour hotline: 0800 80 70 60 or online at gov.uk/report-water-pollution) – and drop me a note too. Local evidence helps make the case for action.