Calceby Beck Restoration Lincolnshire Chalk Streams Project

As the appointed contractor, we are proud to support the restoration of the Lincolnshire Chalk Streams—a unique and defining feature of the Lincolnshire Wolds, shaped over the past 10,000 years. Much of this rolling landscape sits atop a chalk aquifer and is recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

These chalk streams are fed by rainwater that filters through the underlying chalk aquifer, which acts like a sponge—absorbing and storing water. The water travels through natural fissures in the chalk and emerges at the surface from springs and blow wells, crystal clear and at a stable temperature of 10°C. This creates ideal conditions for supporting rare and threatened wildlife, including water crowfoot, otters, water voles, European eels, and brown trout, as well as supplying high-quality drinking water.

Our works targeted a stretch of stream suffering from excess silt and sediment runoff due to surrounding agricultural activity. To address these issues and enhance both habitat and water quality, we delivered a range of nature-based interventions, including:

Key Works Undertaken:

• Excavation of chutes, backwaters, inset berms, and channel widening to improve in-stream diversity

• Creation of wetlands, ponds, scrapes, and the introduction of woody debris within the floodplain to provide habitat complexity and encourage sediment capture

These features collectively help filter runoff, trap sediment, and significantly improve water quality—while also enhancing the stream’s biodiversity and resilience.

We are pleased to contribute our expertise in sustainable watercourse management to a project that brings long-term environmental and ecological benefits to this valued landscape.