STREAM - Guidance on Developing Structural Operating Protocols

The aim of this document is to outline a generic approach towards drafting and agreeing Hatch Operating Protocols, which has been developed based on experiences in developing seven pilot HOPs in the Hampshire Avon catchment. The guidance should be particularly useful to Environment Agency and Natural England staff, as well as local stakeholders with an interest in the operation of in-channel structures. It is intended that this approach should be applicable both on a catchment-wide basis for the River Avon SAC and also to other catchments where similar issues are encountered. It is likely on application of this guidance that many other lessons will be learnt relating to issues that may not have been encountered during the development of the seven pilot HOPs. Issues encountered to date, and potential ways of resolving them, are recorded in the final chapter of this guidance document and it is intended that this section of the guidance is reviewed and added to as appropriate.