Stonebridge Wild River Reserve

On the eastern edge of Marlborough, there is a green space with the River Kennet running through it, which is leased from the St John's Foundation Trust.  ARK have been working on this space since 2009.
 
On the north bank with funding from Biffa, the Environment Agency, WWF-UK and North Wessex Downs AONB we have constructed a boardwalk, seating, information panels and a paddling area for everyone to enjoy. Alongside this, with support from the Wild Trout Trust, we have done lots of work to improve the river habitat for both wild brown trout, and the other wildlife in the river.
 
In 2011 we had the opportunity to purchase the meadow and the south bank of the river. After some hasty fundraising and thanks to the generosity of a number of individuals ARK was able to buy the meadow in partnership with Marlborough Town Council and it was opened as a wild river reserve, a new space where people can witness the amazing diversity of wildlife in and around this chalkstream .

In Spring 2012 the boardwalk was extended so that more disabled people had access for the full length of river. A beautiful sarsen stone was been erected to recognise the contribution of WWF-UK and their patron Princess Alexandra.  It features hand carved benches fashioned from oak by Wiltshire artist Raymond Wirick, and interpretive panels created by Helen Dobie from local design company Elcot Creative.

If you'd like to receive regular information about what's happening at Stonebridge Wild River Reserve just click here to sign up for our newsletter.  We run a variety of activities throughout the year, and these are listed on our events page.

Stonebridge Consultation 2014

In 2014 it was agreed that there should be a consultation to inform a review of the Stonebridge Meadow Management Plan.

The consultation results showed overwhelming support for the measures taken so far and significant opposition to transferring any land to Marlborough Town Football Club.  Public comments will be taken into account as we review the current management plan.

Consultation Questionnaire