Council gives River Hiz its annual clean in Hitchin

PR Date: Friday, 15 January 2021 - 11:45am

The annual cleaning of the River Hiz outside of St Marys Church, Hitchin and Peppermint Court in Whinbush Road, Hitchin is scheduled to commence on Monday 25 January, with the water being drained down on Friday 22 January.

These sections of the river operate via a ‘balancing tank’ system which, with the use of sluice gates that help retain river water in those sections, create a visually appealing, deeper river in the centre of town.

North Hertfordshire District Council (NHDC) will commence work on Friday 22 January to drain water from the tanks and contractors will then remove the silt and sludge, which can obstruct the flow in the tanks if not removed.

General rubbish will also be removed from these sections of the river. Once work is complete the river will be returned to its normal level. Work is expected to finish on Friday 29 January when the water will begin to refill.

Cllr Steve Jarvis, NHDC’s Executive Member for Environment said: “This annual work is important in maintaining the river in the centre of Hitchin, helping it to flow freely and keeping it visually appealing for those who visit. The work will take place during the day and will cause minimal disruption to the surrounding areas.”