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More on KentOnline
Work to restore a neglected river and reconnect it to a town's park will get underway next week.
The section of the River Darent which runs to Dartford Central Park via the Acacia Hall development has fallen into a state of disrepair.
A joint project to rejuvenate the rare form of chalk stream is being led by the South East Rivers Trust with the backing of Dartford Council.
Restoration efforts will start on Monday with £250,000 earmarked for its transformation.
Planners say it will take between six to eight weeks with ambitions to be done by Christmas.
Dr Chris Gardner, the manager of the Trust tasked with overseeing the project said he is excited to get started.
"The river is currently in a state of disrepair and we want to restore it," he said.
"This has been two to three years in the making. It is really about reconnecting people with the environment. "
To complete the restoration the water level will be lowered and flow diverted to the east of Central Park.
All fish will be safely removed while the river runs dry.
Other work will include clearing some non-native trees and installing an interpretation board.
Sally Harvey, area director for the Environment Agency said the river would provide
The landscape reimagining forms part of the council's £5m shake up to the Acacia Hall complex.
Working with the Environment Agency, the local authority is looking to restore Dartford's 'hidden mansion' to its former glory.
The estate is being revamped with some parts completely demolished.
Alterations are also scheduled for the town car park on site.
Councillor Jeremy Kite, leader of Dartford Council said lots of people had campaigned for 'this and that' but praised the town's efforts to enhance the environment.
“I’m not sure that many Dartford residents appreciate just how much valuable environment and biodiversity we have in our town," he said.
"The work we are doing at Acacia will make a huge difference to the river, the wildlife who call it home and every visitor who enjoys it.”
