River Kennet Restoration Project
Location: Hungerford
Client: Private Client
Architect: Rodney Melville and Partners
Value: £0.35M
The project involved the refurbishment of the historic Fish House, the Pump House, a timber and cast-iron bridge and replacement of key sluices located on the River Kennet, one of Britain’s most significant chalk streams.
The buildings sit directly over the river, forming an integral part of the historic estate and requiring sensitive conservation.
Working within an active river environment presented significant technical and environmental challenges. The structures straddle the river, restricting access and requiring careful management of water flow during construction. Any intervention needed to protect the ecological sensitivity of the chalk stream while safeguarding the historic fabric of the buildings and associated features, including access bridges. The sluices are a key component of managing river flows and protect the downstream town of Hungerford. Their replacement necessitated a completely new structure along with the provision of a new fish pass.
The project successfully delivered the repair and conservation of three unique historic structures within a highly sensitive river setting.
The temporary diversion strategy enabled safe and effective construction, while the restored bridges and bespoke balustrades enhanced both functionality and heritage value. The new sluices were commissioned, upon which the existing structure was removed. The scheme preserved the integrity of the River Kennet environment while securing the long-term future of the buildings and improved control of river flows.
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