Commons2nd reading

Chalk Streams (UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site) Bill

A Bill to require the Secretary of State to take the necessary steps to nominate the UK's chalk streams as a serial UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site.

Originating House

House of Commons

Sponsor

Pippa HeylingsLiberal Democrat

Parliament last updated

27 February 2026

In Plain English

AI-generated

May contain errors — check source documents for definitive information.

This bill would require the Secretary of State to take the necessary steps to nominate the United Kingdom’s chalk streams as a serial UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. In practice, the government would have to start the formal nomination process with UNESCO and prepare the evidence needed for recognition. The bill does not guarantee designation or immediate protection; final status would depend on UNESCO’s decision.

Key Points

Creates a duty for the Secretary of State to pursue a serial UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination for the UK’s chalk streams.
The nomination would cover multiple chalk stream locations (a serial site) and involve coordination with UNESCO and relevant heritage and environmental bodies.
Designation depends on UNESCO’s decision; the bill sets the government’s obligation to act but does not confer automatic status or protection.

Who is affected?

Local residents near chalk streamsLandowners and managers of chalk stream sites (e.g., farms and estates)Anglers, recreational users, and tourism operators around chalk streamsEnvironmental and conservation organisations (e.g., wildlife trusts and river groups)Local authorities and public bodies involved in planning, water management, and heritageDepartment for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) and other government agencies coordinating the nomination

Generated 1 March 2026

Bill Stages

1st readingCommons

25 Feb 2026

2nd readingCommons

17 Apr 2026

Committee stageCommons

Report stageCommons

3rd readingCommons

1st readingLords

2nd readingLords

Committee stageLords

Report stageLords

3rd readingLords

Royal Assent

Updates & Documents

News (1)

Chalk Streams (UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site) Bill

27 Feb 2026

The next stage for this Bill, Second reading, is scheduled to take place on Friday 17 April.

This is a Private Members' Bill and was introduced to Parliament on 25 February 2026 under the Ten Minute Rule.

Parliamentary Votes (0)

No recorded votes for this bill yet.

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