Restoring Norfolk's Forgotten Chalk Stream
Join us in working towards solutions that will transform this rare but abused chalk stream into an asset for the people of King's Lynn and West Norfolk
A local chalk stream of global significance
The Gaywood River is one of only 224 chalk streams in the world
Unfortunately, like so many others, the river faces some huge difficulties from mostly man-made problems including pollution and over abstraction – issues that are pushing chalk streams, their aquifers and the ecosystems that surround them to breaking point.
The Gaywood represents our past, our present and our future. Having provided drinking water and shaped settlements since Roman times, we must remember that it isn’t just a resource for us to do with as we please. It’s a unique piece of living history that’s being slowly choked to death.
However, by using science to assess and design workable solutions, we can implement changes that the river desperately needs and set it on a course back to health and of real value for the people and wildlife of West Norfolk.
Our Mission
We are focused on promoting public and political awareness to deliver a strategic plan and change in policies that restores the Gaywood and protects it for future generations. To do this we need to ensure we align with all relevant stakeholders to ensure their issues are addressed. The river’s restoration is not only key to the flora and fauna it serves, but also for our wellbeing and cultural history.
Plans are afoot to again strip almost all of the river’s habitat from banks and stream bed, doing yet more damage to what should be the pride of King’s Lynn and at significant expense to the council tax payer.
In this short film we describe what’s happening and appeal for a fresh look at how the river is treated.
Latest news
New Penalties for Water Company Executives: Will They Make a Difference?
The recent announcement of new penalties for water company executives found obstructing investigations into pollution or sewage discharges is a step in the right direction—but is it enough?
Sewage release data goes live
Anglian water today published their new on-line map showing, in near real time, the status of each of their “storm overflow” outlets from the sewage system. The map links
The big issues
Flood "prevention"
Land use
Over-abstraction
Pollution
Sewage
Documentary film
This 15-minute film is a love letter to a dear old friend who has fallen on hard times. It’s also for the people of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk who deserve better of the “other” river that runs right through their town.
April 23 UPDATE
There is now a 7-minute update to the film which you’ll find here on YouTube
The Gaywood needs your help
We'd love to have you volunteer your time and skills to help bring about the changes that are so desperately needed.