The River Hiz is flowing freely and looking noticeably clearer after a major clean-up carried out through the heart of Hitchin last week.

As part of North Herts Council's annual maintenance programme, the river was temporarily drained using a sluice-gated balancing tank system, allowing teams to remove built-up silt, sludge and litter from the riverbed. The Hiz was successfully refilled on Friday, 23 January.

What was removed?

The scale of the clean-up was significant:

• Five tanker loads of waste were taken away – around 63,000 litres in total
• Approximately 25 tonnes of solid material was cleared, including silt, leaves, sticks, stones and general rubbish
• Key sections were cleaned outside St Mary's Church and near Peppermint Court on Whinbush Road

Why the work matters

The annual maintenance plays an important role in keeping Hitchin's town centre attractive and environmentally healthy. Clearing the river:

• Ensures smooth water flow through the balancing tank system
• Improves the appearance of the river in central Hitchin
• Supports wildlife habitats for ducks, birds and other aquatic life

Cllr Amy Allen, Executive Member for Environment, said: "Annual maintenance like this is essential to keep the River Hiz flowing freely and to preserve its role as an urban wildlife corridor.

"Our work helps keep Hitchin beautiful and environmentally sound. It's so rewarding to witness the transformation – clear water, cleaner banks, and a happier river."

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How residents can help keep the Hiz clean

With the river restored, residents are being encouraged to help protect local wildlife by feeding ducks responsibly and keeping litter out of the water.

The RSPCA advises against feeding bread to ducks, as it has little nutritional value and can pollute rivers, contributing to algae growth and disease.

Healthier alternatives include oats, birdseed, lettuce (not spinach), frozen peas, sweetcorn, chopped grapes or mealworms. Food should be given in small, bite-sized pieces to better match ducks' natural diet.

Anyone spotting pollution, fly-tipping or other issues along the river is asked to report it to the Environment Agency via their website, by calling 03708 506 506, or by emailing [email protected].