Initial work on the site of the Salisbury River Park project is due to start at the end of this month (January 2022).

Works for a major project to reduce flood risk and improve biodiversity and green space in Salisbury will begin over the next week, starting with work on trees and other vegetation on the site.

The Salisbury River Park site runs through the centre of the city, incorporating the rivers that run through The Maltings and Central Car Park at its core, extending to the Ashley Road/Fisherton Recreation Ground to the north, and towards Elizabeth Gardens to the south.

Trees that need to be removed as part of the scheme will be removed now, prior to the nesting bird season. Only trees that need to be removed will be, and the design has minimised the impact on existing trees and other vegetation.

According to Wiltshire Council, the project team will plant 6 times as many trees as they remove and the removed material will be reused on-site where possible.

The works will see some parking spaces temporarily removed to allow space for a site compound and to ensure public safety. In addition, there will be the need to temporarily divert footpaths and cycle paths for short periods where they are adjacent to the work.

Further minor work will continue after the vegetation clearance, including trapping and relocating water voles in isolated areas where they will be directly impacted by the main work, to a suitable habitat further downstream.

When complete, the Salisbury River Park scheme will ensure that 250 homes, 100 businesses and 1 school are better protected from flooding. In addition to reducing flood risk, the scheme aims to bring multiple benefits for residents and businesses in Salisbury, including:

creating wildlife corridors and improving biodiversity
improving the recreational and amenity value of the area, creating green spaces that are more pleasant to move through and spend time in
enabling growth and the regeneration of key development sites in the city centre

Ron Curtis, Area Flood and Coastal Risk Manager at the Environment Agency said, “We have reached the important stage of preparing the Salisbury River Park site ready for construction to begin later this year. This is the first step in providing better flood protection for the city. We know the devastating impact that flooding can have, which is why protecting people and communities is our top priority.“

Councillor Dr Mark McClelland, Cabinet Member for Transport, Waste, Street Scene and Flooding, Wiltshire Council, added, “The Salisbury River Park project is the first initiative from the Salisbury Central Area Framework to come forward and we are excited to see work starting on the site at the end of the month. It has real potential to transform the area providing a lasting legacy for future generations.“

Cllr Caroline Corbin, Salisbury City Council said, “This is an exciting project for Salisbury – both in terms of creating a wildlife pathway and enhancing our rivers but also in developing a greener city for our residents to enjoy. I’m delighted that the work is now starting and ask that everyone remain tolerant during the construction process.“

The main construction work is due to commence in May and will continue through to December 2023.

For more information regarding the Salisbury River Park Scheme, click here.