Fiona Irving

A survey of the Hogsmill River in Surrey indicates that 42 water voles released in 2025 have survived the winter and established populations both upstream and downstream of the release site. Conservationists are using distinctive droppings, squashed faeces, burrows, camera traps and latrine rafts to track the animals. The recovery is supported by efforts to remove invasive mink and restore natural riverbank habitat, helping return a species that had been locally extinct in the area for more than 20 years.

A local campaigner welcomed Thames Water’s £26.4m upgrade to the Burstow sewage treatment works but argued the improvements should have occurred decades earlier, citing persistent pollution in the Burstow stream. The company said the project is part of a major investment programme intended to increase capacity and improve effluent quality. River Mole River Watch expressed scepticism, noting previous upgrades at other sites had not improved water quality, and said further testing is needed. Thames Water highlighted other pollution sources and ongoing investment, while facing scrutiny over substantial fines, mounting debt, and the government’s objection to its proposed rescue deal.

Around 27,000 tonnes of illegally dumped waste have been removed from Hoads Wood in Kent, but conservationists say the cleanup has left the previously biodiverse woodland severely damaged. The Environment Agency expects the operation to finish by the end of the year and is working with several authorities on the site’s future. Environmental groups warn the area remains vulnerable to future dumping and call for long-term restoration, better land ownership clarity, and stronger protections. Three suspects remain under investigation for the illegal dumping.