The Blackwater Valley is maintained as an open space between the borders of the counties of Berkshire, Hampshire and Surrey. It runs for approximately 30 km from the source, near Aldershot in the south northwards to Swallowfield and the confluence with the rivers Whitewater and Loddon.
Work in the Blackwater Valley is co-ordinated by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on behalf of the local authorities within the area. The BVCP works to help protect the Blackwater Valley as an open green and attractive space for the enjoyment of all.
The River Blackwater runs for approximately 30 km from the source, near Aldershot in the south, northwards to Swallowfield and the confluence with the rivers Whitewater and Loddon. It includes a variety of scenery ranging from semi-urban landscapes to unspoilt countryside. Several towns and villages lie within or close to the Valley and it is estimated that over 300,000 people live within 2km of the River.
The Blackwater Valley Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), a small part of the Basingstoke Canal SSSI, three nature reserves, and many other areas have been recognised for their ecological importance. The local planning authorities have designated 31 other areas as Wildlife Sites.
Today parts of the Valley are recognised for their ecological importance, this includes the Blackwater Valley SSSI. Local planning authorities have designated 31 areas as Wildlife Sites.
For more information, including listings of events and volunteering opportunities, contact the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership on 01252 331353, or visit the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership website.
