Revitalising Mearley Brook: Restoring Natural Flow and Enhancing Ecosystems
Mearley Brook, which originates on the scenic Pendle Hill, winds through lush grazing lands before joining Worston Brook and passing through the historic town of Clitheroe. Whist it has long been a vital part of the landscape, the brook has also been heavily modified over the years. Sections of it have been straightened, perched above the floodplain, and confined within unnatural, constructed riverbeds. These modifications have disrupted the natural flow of the brook, impairing key features like meanders, riffles, and pools that are essential for healthy habitats.
The goal of our project was to re-naturalise Mearley Brook through a series of innovative, nature-based interventions designed to work harmoniously with the river’s natural processes. This approach aimed to restore the ecology of the brook while enhancing flood management.
Restoring the River’s Natural Dynamics
For this project we have removed the unnatural constructed riverbed and introduced large wood strategically into the river system. These new natural structures provide essential shelter and habitats for fish and invertebrates and encourage the development of meanders, reducing the river’s straightened, unnatural flow.
Additionally, we have created multiple backwaters alongside the channel, designed to serve as vital habitats for fish and other aquatic life. These backwaters provide areas of slow-moving, calm water, offering essential refuges where fish can rest, recover, and conserve energy during their upstream migration.
Through this project we have also formalised a secondary channel, that had begun forming naturally during flood events. The secondary channel increases the river’s capacity and promotes more complex flow patterns, encouraging natural meandering. Overall, the brook will have slower pools, faster riffles, and varied depths, supporting a wide range of aquatic plants, invertebrates, and wildlife.
Added bonus work!
Building on the excellent work already accomplished, we are excited to introduce a new rock ramp at Little Mearley Weir. This addition will improve river connectivity, supporting migratory and resident fish of all ages. Additionally, we’ve created a pond adjacent to Little Mearley Brook to help retain water and capture surface runoff from the surrounding fields. To further enhance the habitat, we will plant a hedgerow around sections of the pond, creating a natural boundary that separates the new wildlife area and provides shelter for local species.
How does this fit in with other projects?
The work completed on Mearley Brook will complement work completed on Worston Brook though the Environment Agency’s Natural Flood Management Programme. Work on Worston brook will include the introduction of leaky dams to slow floodwaters during heavy rainfall, helping to protect communities and restore natural hydrological functions.
Funding for Mearley Brook
This project is funded by the Government’s Species Survival Fund. The fund was developed by Defra and is being facilitated by The National Lottery Heritage Fund in partnership with the Environment Agency.
Rivers are at the heart of our local landscapes. Whether you’re casting a line, exploring a riverside trail, or simply basking in the beauty of nature, you can help protect these special places now, and for generations to come.
By becoming a Ribble Rivers Trust supporter for just £3 a month, you’ll be funding real, on-the-ground action.
Ready to make a difference? Learn more here: ribbletrust.org.uk/become-a-supporter
