The UK and Welsh Governments have announced a £1 million joint research initiative to tackle pollution in the River Wye. This cross-border collaboration aims to improve water quality, restore local ecosystems, and support sustainable farming practices.
Joint Action to Save the River Wye
The announcement was made by UK Water Minister Emma Hardy and Welsh Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies during a roundtable meeting in Monmouth with key stakeholders.
This initiative is part of the UK Government’s Plan for Change, which includes £100 billion in private sector investment for water infrastructure upgrades. The River Wye project will build on existing efforts, such as the £20 million Land Use for Net Zero, People and Nature programme, to tackle pollution at its root.
What the £1 Million Fund Will Support
The research programme will focus on:
- Investigating sources of pollution affecting the River Wye.
- Assessing the impact of farming practices and land management on water quality.
- Developing and testing innovative solutions to reduce pollution.
- Studying water flow and wildlife decline to improve biodiversity.
The project will collaborate with local farmers, environmental groups, and citizen scientists to gather evidence and shape research priorities. Key partners include:
- Wye Catchment Partnership
- Nutrient Management Board
- Herefordshire Rural Hub
- Farm Cymru
Government Leaders on River Wye Restoration
UK Water Minister Emma Hardy stressed the urgency of tackling pollution in the River Wye:
“For too long, the River Wye has suffered from extreme pollution, devastating wildlife and impacting local communities.”
“We’re resetting relationships on both sides of the border to share knowledge and ensure this research translates into real action.”
Welsh Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies highlighted the need for long-term commitment:
“This research funding will support both nature recovery and sustainable farming practices to improve the local environment.”
“By bringing together expertise from both sides of the border and working closely with local groups, we can better understand the challenges and find solutions that make a difference.”
Tackling Water Pollution as Part of the ‘Plan for Change’
The River Wye initiative is part of the UK Government’s wider efforts to improve water quality, infrastructure, and environmental protection:
- £100 billion private investment into the water sector.
- Water (Special Measures) Act to improve water system management.
- Ongoing £20 million project addressing soil phosphorus levels.
- The ‘Things Can Only Get Cleaner’ Tour, where UK Environment Secretary and Water Minister visit key water sites to oversee investment in water infrastructure.
This research programme will play a crucial role in shaping future government policies on water quality, nature recovery, and farming regulations.
The £1 million UK-Welsh Government research initiative is a significant step toward protecting and restoring the River Wye. By bringing together experts, environmental groups, and farmers, the project will develop sustainable solutions to improve water quality and biodiversity.
This initiative underscores the UK Government’s long-term commitment to making rivers cleaner, supporting local economies, and ensuring a healthier future for British waterways.
