Enhancement of the River Anton
The River Anton is one of Andover’s most important natural features. It is a chalk stream fed by water of exceptionally high quality and supports a
rich and diverse array of wildlife. As the river flows through the town there are many opportunities for the public to enjoy it, with riverside paths and
open spaces.
However, all is not well on the River Anton. Historic development and river management has had a serious effect on its wildlife and amenity
value. The Borough Council, County Council, Environment Agency and Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have formed a partnership to
tackle the changes being experienced by the river. A strategy has been prepared which identifies the key issues and puts forward some actions
which are aimed at improving the river and its environment. This leaflet sets some of the key issues and highlights some of the initiatives which could be undertaken. Your views on them are welcomed.
The River Anton Strategy has 4 broad objectives which are:
• To improve the river and its value for wildlife
• To improve public access along the river
• To involve the community in projects to improve the river
• To ensure the full potential of the River Anton as a chalk river habitat is realised and secured for the future
Review of year one
The first year of the strategy has seen several key projects achieved as well as the partnership approach to delivering improvements made
stronger thanks to the involvement of many volunteers. The central pages give a flavour of the projects completed in each zone to date. A
full account of these projects as well as plans for 2010 can be found at www.testvalley.gov.uk/leisure
