Kendal’s brightest natural asset flowing through the heart of our town to the landscape and coast beyond. It is a precious natural resource and a comparative haven for wildlife. But we need to take care of it!
As our partners at Clean the River Kent Campaign (CRKC) put it; Our River Kent is both an SSSI (Site of Special Scientific Interest) and SAC (Special Area of Conservation) because of it’s unique ecology. It is home to the White Clawed Crayfish, fresh water pearl mussels and bullhead also know in Kendal as ‘Snottie Bully.’ There is therefore an inherent need for the river water to be in especially good condition.
And it’s not only the river itself that needs care. Wildlife soars above the river, makes its home in its banks, and thrives in it’s watery world. The river’s banks are a crucial part of the river ecosystem connecting it to the surrounding landscape and providing access for people who wish to be part of the river’s life.
Natural Kendal is working with partners to support the River Kent as a natural nature corridor. A number of partner’s are working hard to keep the river clean and make it easier to explore the footpaths along its banks. Natural Kendal are also collaborating with partners to develop flood measures that support nature within the Kent catchment by working with the EA to minimise the impact of the flood prevention scheme on wildlife and on our ability to enjoy the river.
CRKC and other local organisations are working tirelessly to protect our river, and they know that the current levels of pollution are a major problem. This pollution is mainly caused by issues such as inappropriate agricultural practices, sewage discharges into the river, litter, and poorly maintained septic tanks.
CRKC aim to submit an application to DEFRA in 2026 for Bathing Water Status at Sandy Bottoms. If successful, the Environment Agency will be responsible for testing the water and publishing the results. The aim is for the river water to be monitored in order to let river users know how safe the water is and in turn provide the evidence to tackle polluters and promote good practice.
