Adur River Recovery
A Sussex-Born Blueprint for Nationwide Recovery
The Project
The Adur River Recovery project is a land manager-led initiative to restore one of the biggest rivers in West Sussex. As a national Landscape Recovery pilot project supported by Defra, we’re reconnecting vital nature recovery sites with the help of 27 farms & estates, conservation partners, and local councils.
The Problem
The River Adur is under threat—habitat loss, species decline, pollution, drought, and flooding are now widespread. Urban development and sea-level rise add further pressure. Without urgent action, these issues will worsen.
The Solution
Renaturalising channels & floodplains
Restoring the river and reconnecting it to its floodplain slows water, reducing both floods and droughts.
Reviving Wetlands & Wildlife
Creating wetlands and saltmarsh boosts biodiversity, captures carbon, and filters pollution.
Enhancing Landscapes
Planting trees, improving fish passage, and tackling invasive species restores balance to ecosystems.
Supporting Sustainable Farming
Nature-friendly farming practices improve soil health, protect water quality, and create a resilient countryside.
Diving into the Numbers
of River Channel
Leading Farms & Estates
of Riverside Habitat
Partners
of Nature Recovery
Strategic Location
Latest News
River Adur Users Survey: Summer 2023
From July to September 2023, 591 people shared their love for the Adur in our survey, offering inspiring insights on its use, value, and well-being.
Wintering bird surveys along the Adur
This year, we’re gathering vital data on Adur’s habitats and species. Ecologists are surveying wintering birds from Knepp to Shoreham before any changes.
Visit to Elmley Marshes
To end the year, Adur River Recovery visited Elmley Marsh, learning about its wildlife and saltmarsh restoration to inspire future Adur conservation efforts.
Contact
Knepp Wildland Foundation
Knepp Castle Estate Office,
Horsham,
West Sussex,
RH13 8LJ