Why are vehicles driving through the River Meon?

Vehicles are legally allowed to drive through a 200-meter section of the River Meon because it is classified as an unclassified road or ancient byway, despite being a rare chalk stream habitat.

What damage are vehicles causing to the River Meon?

Vehicles driving through the River Meon are stripping vegetation from the riverbed and impacting the biodiversity of this rare chalk stream habitat, according to an aquatic ecology report.

What is being done to stop vehicles driving through the River Meon?

Local residents and environmental groups are campaigning for a Traffic Regulation Order to close the forded section. Hampshire County Council is reviewing access, but a definitive action plan has not yet been established.

Home / Environment / River Highway: 4x4s Drive Through Rare Chalk Stream

River Highway: 4x4s Drive Through Rare Chalk Stream

4 Feb

•

Summary

Vehicles illegally drive through a rare chalk stream habitat.
Activists and locals protest damage to the River Meon's ecosystem.
Authorities are reviewing access, but a resolution remains pending.

River Highway: 4x4s Drive Through Rare Chalk Stream

A unique section of the River Meon in Hampshire, one of the world's rarest chalk stream habitats, is facing severe damage from vehicles driving through it. Local residents and experts are calling for the closure of this 200-meter stretch, legally classified as an unclassified road, to prevent further harm to the precious ecosystem. Protests have been organized, with over a hundred people demonstrating against the continued use of the river by 4x4s and scrambler bikes.

While Hampshire County Council acknowledges the sensitivity of the area and has commissioned an Aquatic Ecology Report concluding that vehicles impact the river's biodiversity, no timeframe has been set for a review of access. The South Downs National Park Authority, responsible for conservation, also navigates a dual purpose of protecting wildlife and promoting public access. The Green Lane Association emphasizes the importance of countryside access for all, especially those with mobility issues, and states that most motorized users are responsible.