This community-driven urban river restoration project will enhance the river and wildlife habitat along the river Petteril where the city meets the countryside. With the potential for other habitat improvement such as ponds, invasive non-native species removal and native tree planting, once complete, this area will be home to a wider diversity of wildlife and be a much more welcoming place for the community to visit.

There will be a programme of walks and activities to encourage local people to rediscover the river. Interpretation and resources will be developed that link to the waymarked trails and encourage exploration of the natural heritage beyond the life of the project.

Spring 2025 Update

Draft options from the feasibility study for protecting the railway line and improving the habitat at Petteril Vale were proposed and put forward for public consultation. The final designs have been delayed, though, due to additional hydrological modelling requirements. The final report is now expected in May and not predicted to delay project delivery.

As part of a feasibility study for the valley, a drop-in community engagement event was held in the local Community Hall in February, inviting people to share their knowledge of the valley and highlight any concerns about the proposals. Valuable conversations were had and new connections made, including offers of volunteer help.

In pictures…

Thank you

This project is supported by the Access to Eden: breaking barriers, building bridges partnership project led by Eden Rivers Trust with a grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. We are also grateful for support from Cumberland Council via the Petteril Community Panel.