Uplifting the Upper Cray

Project overview

We are restoring a 1.4km stretch of the Upper River Cray through Riverside Gardens in Orpington and St Mary Cray, working to improve water quality, increase biodiversity and reconnect this historically modified chalk stream.

This project focuses on tackling key pressures — including pollution, low flows and habitat fragmentation — to help the river recover and function more naturally.

By working in partnership with local organisations, communities and volunteers, we are creating a healthier, more resilient river for both people and wildlife.

Why it matters

The River Cray has been heavily modified over time, with pollution, altered channels and reduced flows limiting its ability to support wildlife.

Spanning 14.5km, the river is currently failing to meet ecological standards expected of chalk streams.

Restoring the Upper Cray will help to:

• Improve water quality and reduce pollution
• Restore habitats for fish, invertebrates and birds
• Reconnect the river for migrating species
• Build resilience to climate change

This work supports the ambition to achieve Good Ecological Potential by 2027, in line with the Cray and Shuttle Catchment Plan.

Where we’re working

The project focuses on Riverside Gardens and surrounding reaches of the Upper Cray, ending at Mill Brook Road upstream of Broomwood Lake.

This area is an important local green space, with wetlands designated as priority habitats and strong connections to the surrounding community.

Our approach

We are using a combination of habitat restoration and nature-based solutions to support long-term recovery of the river.

Wetland restoration and water quality improvements

Wetlands play a vital role in filtering pollutants and improving water quality.

At Riverside Gardens, we are:

• Reprofiling the wetland to create a range of water depths
• Reconnecting the wetland to the River Cray
• Installing a sediment trap to reduce road runoff and protect downstream habitats
• Planting native species to absorb nutrients and support wildlife

These improvements will help create a more resilient ecosystem while also storing carbon and supporting climate adaptation.

Improving river habitats and connectivity

We are also restoring over a kilometre of river habitat downstream by:

• Assessing barriers such as Snelling Weir and developing plans to improve fish passage
• Delivering in-stream habitat enhancements to increase flow diversity
• Creating better conditions for aquatic species and overall river health

Together, these actions will help reconnect the river and allow wildlife to move freely through the catchment.

Working with the community

The Upper Cray is a valued local space, and community involvement is central to the project’s success.

We are working closely with volunteers, including those led by CRA20TEN, who bring valuable experience in pollution monitoring, clean-ups and habitat restoration.

The project also engages schools and local residents — helping to build long-term stewardship of the river in partnership with the London Borough of Bromley.

Partnership and funding

This project is delivered in collaboration with key partners, including:

• Environment Agency
• London Wildlife Trust

Funding has been provided by:

• Mayor of London
• London Borough of Bromley
• Thames21

This collaborative approach brings together expertise, funding and local knowledge to deliver meaningful change.