This project aims to enhance the Rotherlands Nature Reserve for people and wildlife.

Working together we will build better access within and to this special place and beyond across the South Downs National Park.

We will help wildlife flourish and improve the water quality of the precious River Rother. 

Where is this project taking place?

Rotherlands Nature Reserve in Petersfield, Hampshire​ in the South Downs National Park 

Why is this project happening?

One of the objectives is to reduce or stop bank erosion from people and dogs entering the river. The upper Rother is prime habitat for fish spawning and a nursery site for juvenile trout and grayling. Increased sediment from eroding banks reduces the health and function of these important spawning sites. 

Non-native invasive species such as Himalayan Balsam and Giant Hogweed are present on site, banks colonised by these species are likely to erode more readily than those that are protected by native species that help stabilise riverbanks.  

There are also several pathways that are wide, wet and muddy making year-round walking less desirable and are likely to increase erosion and run off and loss of habitat. 

Who is involved?

The project is led by Western Sussex Rivers Trust (WSRT) in partnership with South Downs National Park Authority (SDNPA), the Wild Trout Trust and the landowners, Petersfield Town Council and East Hants District Council. A range of other organisations will also be involved in the project.  

When will the work happen?

The project is being delivered between 2026- 2028  

Who is paying for the project?

The project has been made possible by £350k of funding, thanks to the National Grid LEI and match funding from Southern Water  

What will the project achieve? ​ 

• Enhanced habitats: 500m riverbank protected from further erosion; tree/hedge planting; in-channel work to protect key river habitat​ 

• Accessible year-round: Enhanced pathways, boardwalks and pond platform, river-access point, links with national trails​ 

• New ‘Friends of Rotherlands’ Group: Volunteer sessions - planting, dead-hedging; invasive species removal; pond improvements​ 

• Improved awareness of the river: New signage boards, community engagement, walks & talks, walking maps, video, other media​ 

• Monitoring: water quality, ecology - including Riverfly, camera traps​ 

If you would like to find out further information about the project, or would like to become a volunteer, please get in touch info@wsrt.org.uk  

We are hugely grateful for the funding support from the National Grid Landscape Enhancement Initiative, as well as match funding from Southern Water.