Our aim is to achieve Local Landscape Designation for the whole Mimram Valley.
This will enable greater protection for the precious chalk stream environment of our local river. There are only some 200 known chalk streams worldwide. Approximately 85% are in England, with Hertfordshire and Middlesex holding around 10% of the global total.
We aim to achieve LLD via partnership with the relevant Parish and District Councils, Herts and Middx Wildlife Trust (as Catchment Management Hosts for the Rivers Lea & Mimram) and Affinity Water Limited, amongst others.
All of the parish areas contribute greatly to the overall visual and heritage landscape of the valley. There are many important ecological and heritage assets.
A closely-related objective is to link up the green spaces and footpaths bordering the River Mimram.
This will involve the whole valley, from the river’s source north of Whitwell, to its confluence with the River Lea at Hertford. The river flows through:
- the parishes of King’s Walden, St Paul’s Walden, Kimpton, Knebworth and Codicote (within North Hertfordshire District Council);
- the parishes of the Ayots and Welwyn (within Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council);
- the parishes Tewin and Hertingfordbury and thence Hertford Town Council’s area (within East Hertfordshire District Council).
Designated and properly-constructed and signed footpaths and bridleways, will enable people to walk the whole length of the valley. This in turn, will enhance the quality of life and encourage patronage of the hospitality businesses in the area.