Droxford Watersplash

Developing an evidence‑based approach to manage the historic Droxford Watersplash while protecting the sensitive River Meon and its wildlife.

Last update: June 2026

Scheme background

The River Meon is a rare and highly sensitive chalk stream. These rivers are internationally important and support a wide range of wildlife, including salmon which are now in serious decline and at risk of disappearing from some areas.
At Droxford, the Watersplash at Mill Lane crosses the River Meon. This historic route (linked to the former activities at Droxford Corn Mill) is legally designated as a publicly maintained highway, meaning there is a long-standing right of access. Recently motor vehicle use of the watersplash has raised concerns about its potential impact on the sensitive river environment.

The River Meon has recently been recognised as a Compensatory Special Area of Conservation (SAC) for its valuable chalk stream habitat and its population of Atlantic salmon. This highlights its importance not just locally, but at a national and international level.
Hampshire County Council recognises the significance of its chalk rivers and is committed to protecting and managing them carefully for the future.
Any changes to how the Watersplash route is used would need to follow a formal legal process. This would require the County Council to use its statutory traffic regulation powers, which would need to be supported by robust evidence, and require public consultation before any decision is made.

Work undertaken so far

Initial ecological surveys have been completed, and the County Council has sought legal advice on its responsibilities as the highway and traffic management authority in relation to the Watersplash.

Latest update (May 2026)
The County Council is working closely with the South Downs National Park Authority and Natural England to build a strong evidence base. This will help identify the most appropriate way to manage this location and protect the river. One option being considered is a Traffic Regulation Order (TRO).
Further work is needed, including traffic surveys and ongoing ecological monitoring, to make sure any future decision is based on clear evidence and is robust. This careful approach will help ensure that any measures introduced are effective, appropriate, and can stand up to public and legal scrutiny.
Taking the time to gather this information now will help avoid ineffective solutions and support long-term protection of the River Meon.
Next steps and timescales

Traffic surveys at the Watersplash will begin in June 2026. These surveys will provide up-to-date information on how often the crossing is used, including the type and frequency of vehicles.

Subject to funding and a decision to proceed, ecological monitoring is expected to begin in summer 2026, once the approach has been agreed with Natural England. This specialist work will help establish a strong baseline of the river’s condition, including comparisons with other similar sections of the River Meon.

The monitoring is expected to run for around 12 months so that changes in the river can be understood across all seasons.

Once this information has been gathered, the County Council will review the findings and decide on the most appropriate next steps. If supported by the evidence, one potential option is the introduction of an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO).

What is the process for an Experimental Traffic Regulation Order (ETRO)?

An ETRO allows changes to be introduced on a trial basis so their impact can be assessed before a final decision is made.

The process typically includes:

  • Preparing the legal documents, including plans and a statement explaining the proposal
  • Informal consultation with the Police and the local County Councillor
  • A formal decision by the County Council to proceed with the trial subject to the above
  • Installing any necessary signs or physical measures
  • A public consultation period of six months, during which feedback can be submitted
  • A further review period (up to 12 months) to consider feedback and decide whether to make the changes permanent
The process before starting the trial usually takes around four to eight weeks. An ETRO can remain in place for a maximum of 18 months and cannot be extended.
Funding Arrangements

Funding for the transport capital delivery schemes is separate from the County Council’s revenue budget and savings proposals. In the majority of cases funding comes from external grants and / or Section 106 contribution from developers. This funding usually has conditions that strictly control on how, where and when it can be spent.

Roadworks and Travel Advice

Visit Causeway one.network which is where the planned works are published and is an independent platform that allows real-time monitoring of all the UK’s roadworks and diversions.

My Journey - travel information and travel advice choices in Hampshire.

Contact us
Address
Universal Services
Hampshire County Council
The Castle
Winchester
SO23 8UD