FROM BARE, messy mounds of earth, the River Park Project is now starting to come to life as the first marginal plants are now in place alongside the water edges.
A wide variety of plants are being used all of which would occur naturally in this area and includes reed canary grass, reed sweet grass, great tussock sedge, soft rush, hemp agrimony, fool’s watercress, brooklime, flowering rush, water forget-me-not, meadowsweet, water mint, flag iris, water figwort and common valerian.
Salisbury River Park Project Lead, Andy Wallis said: “The planting that has happened so far are what is referred to as ‘marginal’ planting next to the river and will remain wet for most of the time.”
Read more: Salisbury River Park Project landscaping
Ongoing work in the River Avon channel through the central car park has led to the channel being partially opened through the Maltings at the weekend. This was slightly earlier than planned and was due to the high flows from the recent rain.
Andy Wallis said: "The channel should be opened on Tuesday or Wednesday this week."
Work on the Mill Stream through the Maltings has involved the construction of some low level gravel banks within the channel. This has led to the temporary closure of some footpaths. These will be opened shortly but work will be completed within the next two to three weeks.
Read more: Sarum St Paul's pupils inspired by the River Park Project
Work will then commence on the landscaping works outside of the channel and bridges will be completed across the water.
Andy Wallis added: “Progress is very good at the moment with several key bits of work having been completed recently or will be due for completion in the coming weeks.
"At Ashley Road, we have been busy constructing some new structures over the Summerlock stream. This will be completed early in November. We have also been finishing off the remaining flood embankments and other structures.”
Work will soon begin on the new boardwalk and viewing platforms along the river in the Fisherton Recreation ground and residents will soon be able to witness the landscaping and planting work which will start next month.
Work commences on the new Multi-Use Games Area there in November with the play area work in Ashley Road commencing in December.
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