Caroline Nokes MP disappointed at Government decision to de-prioritise chalk streams

The Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP, with pupils from Longparish C of E School, Andover, overlooking the River Test

Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, has expressed her grave concern at  the Government's decision to abandon dedicated policies and protections for England’s chalk streams. In a letter to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed OBE MP, Caroline Nokes voiced her worries about the impact this decision will have on these globally significant ecosystems.

As the representative for a constituency that includes much of the River Test and a stretch of the River Itchen, two of the finest chalk streams in the world, Nokes described her "consternation" over the Government’s decision to lump chalk streams in with all other types of rivers, disregarding their unique characteristics and importance.

In her letter, Ms. Nokes stated:

“These streams are unique ecosystems, quite distinct in their character. It is hugely regrettable to hear the Government has failed to acknowledge how special these rivers are. They are simply not the same as other water courses and deserve bespoke protections.”

She highlighted the exceptional qualities of chalk streams, noting their clear waters, minimal sediment, and vital role in supporting native species such as brown trout and invertebrates found nowhere else. Originating from springs where chalk forms the bedrock, chalk streams are fed by groundwater rather than surface runoff, resulting in water quality and clarity that is unrivalled.

Ms. Nokes continued:

“In Hampshire, we like to say the water is as clear as gin. These rivers are not just beautiful; they are one of England's most unique habitats. To treat them like any other river is a grave mistake.”

Caroline Nokes also pointed to her collaborative efforts with the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust to highlight the significance of these habitats and called on the Government to reinstate special protections for chalk streams.

“I urge the Secretary of State to think again and single chalk streams out for the special treatment they deserve,” Ms. Nokes concluded.

Chalk streams are among the rarest river systems globally, with around 85% of the world’s chalk streams located in England. The River Test and River Itchen are internationally recognised for their ecological value and play a key role in Hampshire's natural heritage.

 

Letter from Caroline Nokes which reads: "Dear Steve As the MP for a large part of the River Test and a small stretch of the River Itchen I am sure you will understand my consternation that DEFRA has abandoned the previous Government’s work on chalk streams. These are two of the finest chalk streams in the world, and I have been pleased to work alongside the Hants and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust highlighting their importance. These streams are unique ecosystem, and quite distinct in their character. It is hugely regrettable to hear that the Government has failed to acknowledge how special these rivers are, and is now lumping them in with every other type of river. They are simply not the same. They are one of England’s most unique habitats and provide a water quality and clarity that contains very little organic matter and sediment. They are not only home to our native brown trout, but a host of invertebrates that are found nowhere else These distinct rivers originate from springs where chalk forms the bedrock. The water is able to percolate through the ground to the water table below resulting in chalk streams receiving very little in surface water runoff. It means the water is beautifully clear – as we like to say in Hampshire, like gin! I very much hope you will think again and single chalk streams out for special treatment, they deserve it! Best wishes Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP"

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