The Stodmarsh Stream Enhancement Scheme is a groundbreaking initiative delivering nutrient neutrality at scale for developments across the River Stour catchment. The scheme uses natural processes to address nutrient pollution, while breathing life back into degraded agricultural waterways.

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At five carefully chosen sites, spanning over 1.6 kilometres of channel, small, heavily managed streams are being developed as vibrant, wetland-rich habitats. These interventions intercept nutrient-rich runoff before it reaches the internationally protected Stodmarsh Habitats Sites, which are currently under threat from excessive nitrogen and phosphorus levels.

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Using the Enhanced Drainage Ditch Management framework, each watercourse will be reshaped into a two-stage channel, with vegetated floodplain benches and natural low-grade weirs. These features slow the flow of water, increase contact time with soils and vegetation, and promote powerful nutrient cycling processes, generating significant quantities of certified nutrient credits for Ashford, Canterbury and other effected towns

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But the benefits go far beyond compliance. The scheme will also deliver:

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Natural flood management, by storing and slowly releasing stormwater

Biodiversity boosts, through rich aquatic and riparian habitats

Carbon sequestration, via tree planting and diverse vegetation

Water resilience, helping regulate flows during droughts and floods

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The scheme is designed to last, with long-term maintenance, adaptive management, and legal securing for 80+ years through S106 agreements or equivalent covenants.