In a determined effort to combat the urgent issue of riverbank erosion in Little Ayton, a group of dedicated volunteers has stepped in to take action. This community initiative, spearheaded by the Tees Rivers Trust, is aimed at preventing rapid deterioration that threatens to collapse a crucial footpath near the River Leven.
Recently, North Yorkshire Council reached out to the Tees Rivers Trust at the end of 2025, highlighting the alarming erosion that could potentially erase not just the footpath, but also access to a nearby bridge.
Ben Lamb, the CEO of the Tees Rivers Trust, emphasized the urgency of the situation: "When we assessed the area during the first week of January, it was clear that our time to act was very limited."
To mitigate the effects of the river's current, volunteers implemented a large timber flow deflector, which was securely anchored into the riverbed with 1.5-meter (approximately 4.9 feet) rebar pins. Remarkably, within hours of this installation, they observed significant movement, with tons of gravel shifting to stabilize the bank.
Following this initial intervention, the team proceeded to place wooden stakes and recyclable brash material, sourced from a nearby forest with permission from Forestry England, to create a protective barrier against further erosion.
Moreover, they planted willow whips behind this newly constructed barrier, hoping these will root and bolster the bank’s stability over time.
Lamb shared the ongoing commitment of the trust, stating, "Since 2010, we've been collaborating with local farmers and communities across the Leven catchment area, and there’s still much work ahead of us. We take great pride in being part of the Living Leven Catchment Group, contributing to the health of this wonderful river whenever possible."
Do you have thoughts on how local communities can effectively address environmental challenges like riverbank erosion? What strategies do you think are most effective in protecting vital pathways and ecosystems? We’d love to hear your opinions!
