As part of ongoing work to reduce flood risk, the Town Council's grounds team has recently completed clearance works along a section of the Crow Stream adjacent to Public Footpath 41a.  The work was undertaken through the Parish Lengthsman Scheme, which receives support from Hampshire County Council for local highways and rights of way maintenance.

The work has focused on clearing vegetation from the stream bed and banks, removing obstructions and improving access along the footpath. The clearance has been carried out upstream of the section of the Crow Stream that is maintained annually by local volunteers as part of the long-running Crow Stream Restoration Project.

The completed works will improve the stream's capacity to convey water during periods of heavy rainfall.  By increasing flow and storage capacity within the channel, the works are expected to help reduce the severity of flooding downstream, particularly in the area below the railway line and around Crow Crossroads.

The works come at an important time as we prepare for the potential of a wetter autumn and winter. The Crow Stream plays a critical role in draining the surrounding catchment area, and maintaining its flow capacity helps reduce the frequency and severity of local flooding events.

Residents are reminded that the annual Crow Stream Volunteer Clearance will take place on Thursday 1 October 2026.  This long-running maintenance programme has been instrumental in improving the stream's performance and reducing flood impacts since restoration works began more than a decade ago. Anyone wishing to take part is asked to contact Ringwood Town Council in advance, as volunteers will be organised into teams and allocated sections of the stream.  New volunteers are always welcome.

Reminder to Riparian Owners

The Council is also taking this opportunity to remind anyone who owns land adjoining a watercourse, stream or ditch that they may be a riparian owner and have legal responsibilities to maintain the watercourse. Riparian owners are generally responsible for the section of watercourse on or adjoining their land and should ensure it is kept clear and able to flow freely. This includes responsibilities such as removing blockages where appropriate, maintaining banks and structures, and ensuring water can pass without causing flooding to neighbouring land.

Landowners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the guidance available from Hampshire County Council:

https://www.hants.gov.uk/landplanningandenvironment/environment/flooding/landowners

By working together, residents, landowners, volunteers and local authorities can help maintain the effectiveness of the area's drainage network and reduce flood risk for the wider community.