‘Failing’ concrete banks are set to be removed from the River Chess in Chesham, while a bridge will be replaced.

The works at Chesham Moor will begin on September 24 and last six to eight weeks, according to the Chilterns Chalk Stream Project, which works to enhance the rare and protected waterways.

In a statement it said: “If you are a regular user or a school, please be advised that some areas will be closed for several weeks.”

Subject to consents being granted, the work will include the removal of ‘failing’ concrete banks and the area will be ‘re-naturalised’ with a new channel more typical of other less-modified chalk streams.

The existing concrete foot bridge is to be replaced with one that allows ‘safe, step-free access’ across the channel for parents with children and people with mobility impairments.

A reed-bed sustainable drainage system will also be installed to intercept the flow from road-side gullies on Bois Moor Road, ‘helping to prevent pollutants from entering the channel’.

As well as this, a new gravel, sloped access-ramp will be installed at the confluence of the side stream and the main river, which the Chilterns Chalk Stream Project says will provide safer access to the river, especially for families and school groups.

In a statement, it said: “We will be creating a natural amenity for the local community to enjoy as well as providing habitat for water vole, brown trout and other river creatures.”