This winter 2025/26, Bristol Avon Rivers Trust (BART) will be working with Bristol City Council to carry out river restoration works along the River Malago in Manor Woods Valley and the Pigeon House Stream in Crox Bottom.
The project has been enabled by funding from the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority’s Green Recovery Fund, with capital match funding provided by Bristol City Council.
Impact on trees
The restoration works involve extensive watercourse coppicing to allow more sunlight into the rivers. This increase in light will encourage the growth of aquatic and riverside plants, which are vital for supporting healthy populations of invertebrates and fish.
Coppicing
Coppicing is a woodland management technique where trees are cut down to their base, encouraging new shoots to grow from the stump or roots. This allows us to let the necessary light in for the riverside plants without killing the trees, making it a more sustainable forestry practice.
The selective watercourse coppicing will aim to achieve a target of around 60% shade and 40% light to support a healthier habitat.
Supporting nature in Manor Woods Valley and Crox Bottom
BART plans to install strategically placed woody debris in the streams, using hinged trees and brushwood berms. This natural material helps to diversify river habitats, creating shelter for wildlife and promoting more dynamic water flow. It also plays an important role in natural flood management by slowing down and retaining more water during heavy rainfall.
The team at BART has been working closely with the Manor Woods Valley Group to make sure the works are delivered effectively and will be keen to get support from volunteers.
Get in touch
These restoration efforts will help support healthier, more resilient river ecosystems in south Bristol.
For more information about the planned works, or to express your interest in volunteering, please get in touch with BART at info@bristolavonriverstrust.org.
Example of brushwood berms previously installed by BART to diversify in-stream habitat
