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River Pang Water Quality Declared 'Poor'
11 Aug
Summary
- Environment Agency rates River Pang's water quality as poor.
- River Pang also failed a test for hazardous substances.
- Thames Water invested £875,000 in river restoration project.
The water quality of the River Pang, a Berkshire chalk stream, has been officially rated as "poor" by the Environment Agency. Recent figures also revealed that the river failed a critical test for hazardous substances. Thames Water had initiated a "flagship chalk stream restoration project" on the River Pang in 2022, with plans for restoration spanning from 2025 to 2035.
Despite an investment of £875,000 by Thames Water into the Pang Flagship Chalk Stream Partnership, the river's poor status raises alarms. Environmental advocates argue that pollution is not solely attributable to weather, emphasizing the need for a complete overhaul of the water industry's practices. Chalk streams, a rare habitat with 85% found in the UK, are deemed precious resources.
The Environment Agency stated it is actively working to restore and protect chalk streams like the River Pang. They identified "barriers to fish movement" as a key factor impacting fish populations. Thames Water reiterated its commitment to the Pang catchment, recognizing that river quality is affected by various factors including farming, industry, and extreme weather, necessitating a coordinated approach.
