A huge five-year revamp of the River Crane is in the works that would see 3km of riverside restored.

The aim is to create an accessible riverside path along the stretch from Kneller Gardens to Northcote Nature Reserve, with a “more natural river full of plants, fish and wildlife, running through re-landscaped parks and open spaces”.

The project is expected to take five years, with eight stages, the second of which- producing and laying out a ‘Vision’ document- has just been completed.

The Crane Valley Partnership, which is behind the project, said because the wide concrete channel has replaced the natural river banks, the area has “little habitat for wildlife and is poor in the animal and plant species that should flourish there”.

David Attenborough, who lives in Richmond, has given the project his stamp of approval.

He said: “As with most urban rivers, certain reaches of the River Crane have been forgotten and neglected for many years, nowhere more so than the concreted lower sections running through Twickenham, St Margarets and Isleworth.

“The vision illustrated in this document demonstrates a bold attempt to not only improve and re-naturalise these areas, but also to reconnect people with their local river and associated wildlife.

“I earnestly support this marvellous project and believe it will enhance the lives of wildlife, humans and the river for years to come.”

This Is Local London:

Typical view of existing concrete river channel of lower River Crane 

The price tag on the project is unknown at this early stage, but £99k in funding has been secured so far.

This does not include any works and further funding has been and will be applied for.

The projected cost of the total project will only be known after the feasibility study has been completed in 2018.

Councillor Pamela Fleming, Richmond cabinet member for environment, business and community said: “This proposal would greatly enhance the usability of the space around the river, with cyclists and walkers enjoying a much enhanced experience.

“It would also service a significant educational asset for schools, colleges and the wider community.

“I encourage residents who live around, or use the areas near the river to have their say before the deadline.”

You can have your say on this project until Monday, January 8.

After residents’ feedback is received, it will be sent to the stakeholders for consideration.

Check out the project vision here.