Albion Channel Ecological Improvement Scheme

Many thanks to everyone who came along to the public planting day on 27th July. All plants are now planted, and the channel is ready to be filled.

We are currently filling Albion Channel from Surrey Water, where we use Dyofix blue pond dye to control algal growth and which gives the water a blue tinge. Nothing has been added directly to the Channel. Pond dyes naturally break down within 6 – 8 weeks, so once we have filled the channel it should dissipate in time.

Pond dyes are eco-friendly and non-toxic for wildlife and surface plants - controlling algae by interfering with their underwater photosynthesis.

We will continue to monitor the condition of the water following completion of the environmental works in the Channel, and do not intend to add further dye to the Channel directly.

Revised schedule (July 2026)

• 22nd January - 28th February 2026: Transplanting and removal of plants (100%)
• 10th March – 17th April 2026: Start silt and gravel removal (100%)
• Planter installation: 2nd June – 31st July 2026 (95%)
• Filling channel with water: WC 13th July 2026 – 21st August 2026
• Planting: 20th July – 14th August 2026
• Public planting day: 27th July 2026 start at 3:00 pm

The programme for the Albion Channel Ecological Improvement Scheme had been delayed due to challenges in excavating the material from the channel and the impact on the traffic management methodology. The approved methodology, use of a vacuum excavator, required a Temporary Traffic Regulation Order (TTRO) and was approved at the end of January 2026.

These measures are all essential to allow safe and efficient access for the vacuum excavator and other plant required for silt removal but delayed overall progress on the scheme.

Initial works to clear and relocate the vegetation commenced in December and were completed in February, ensuring all nesting options in the channel were removed and mitigating habitats using existing vegetation were installed before the season begins.