The river level rose following Storm Babet in October 2023, with debris washed down the river toppling several of the stepping stones. This meant that it was unsafe to use the stones to get from one side of the river to the other. A bridge further downstream meant that it was still possible for people to visit Dovedale.
River levels are now low enough for us to be able to start work to repair the missing stones and then set them in the river bed. Because the site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) permission for the work had to be gained from Natural England, and this has now been granted.
Work will start on Monday 12 August, and should be completed by 23 August.
Our Cabinet Member for Highways Assets and Transport, Councillor Charlotte Cupit said:
“We know how much this landmark site is valued by all those who visit it each year, and we are pleased that the river is low enough to make these repairs so people will soon be able to use them again.
“So that we don’t get in the way of most visitors our team will be starting work at 5am and then finishing when Dovedale starts to get busy.
“It shouldn’t take us too long to complete the job so we are hopeful that within two weeks the stones will be finished and people will be able to use them again.”
The stepping stones are a public right of way, on land cared for by the National Trust and we’re responsible for making sure that the public can use them safely.