Mayor Steve Rotheram has introduced a comprehensive new strategy for the Liverpool City Region designed to improve the health of its rivers, canals, and coastline. The 'Vision for Sustainable Water Management' aims to enhance flood protection and ensure a stable water supply for residents and businesses.
The plan, developed in partnership with United Utilities and the Mersey Rivers Trust, will be presented to the Combined Authority for approval next week. It builds on a previous agreement to accelerate the cleanup of the River Mersey and meet national water quality standards.
Key Takeaways
- A new strategic plan aims to improve water quality and flood resilience across the Liverpool City Region.
- Mayor Steve Rotheram has set a target to make the River Mersey free of untreated sewage discharges by 2030.
- The vision is a collaborative effort involving the Combined Authority, United Utilities, and the Mersey Rivers Trust.
- The strategy focuses on mitigating the impacts of climate change, particularly on vulnerable communities.
A New Vision for Water Management
The Liverpool City Region has outlined a forward-thinking strategy to address pressing environmental challenges. The 'Vision for Sustainable Water Management' establishes a framework for protecting the region's vital water resources against the increasing pressures of climate change and urban development.
This initiative follows a landmark Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year. That agreement solidified the partnership between the Combined Authority, water company United Utilities, and environmental charity the Mersey Rivers Trust, committing them to shared goals for water improvement.
Four Strategic Objectives
The vision is built around four primary goals intended to create a resilient and healthy water environment for the entire region:
- Cleaner Water Bodies: A focused effort to reduce pollution in rivers, canals, and coastal areas.
- Flood Avoidance: Implementing measures to protect homes and infrastructure from flooding.
- Climate Adaptation: Mitigating the long-term impacts of rising sea levels on coastal communities.
- Water Supply Reliability: Ensuring a consistent and safe supply of water for all users.
Addressing Climate Change and Urbanisation
The plan directly confronts challenges intensified by climate change. The region is experiencing more frequent and intense storms, which, combined with dense urban areas, increases the risk of surface water flooding. This poses a threat to public health, property, and the local economy.
Protecting Communities and the Environment
Mayor Steve Rotheram emphasized the plan's focus on public well-being and environmental justice. He highlighted the need to end the discharge of untreated sewage into local rivers, a key component of the new strategy.
“This vision is all about protecting what matters. That means stopping raw sewage being pumped into our rivers – which is why I’ve pledged to make the River Mersey free of untreated discharges by 2030,” said Mayor Rotheram.
The Mayor also stressed the social equity aspect of the plan, noting that disadvantaged communities are often the most affected by poor infrastructure and environmental hazards. “Tackling that is part of the fight for environmental and social justice,” he added.
The plan aims to ensure that residents can safely enjoy the region's coastline and waterways for recreational activities like swimming and fishing without health concerns.
A Collaborative Partnership Approach
The success of the vision relies on the continued collaboration between public and private sector organisations. Key partners have voiced their strong support for the integrated approach.
Louise Beardmore, Chief Executive of United Utilities, spoke about the company's commitment. “Making the North West stronger, greener and healthier is at the heart of everything we do, and we are delighted to be working alongside the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Local Authorities, and the Mersey Rivers Trust to bring to life the vision for Merseyside," she stated.
Investment and Progress
According to United Utilities, the company is delivering the largest environmental investment programme the North West has ever seen. This multi-million-pound investment in wastewater treatment has already shown transformational benefits, with various species returning to the River Mersey.
Dr Keith Hendry, Chair of the Mersey Rivers Trust, also praised the joint effort. “Collaboration has been at the heart of the improvements to the Mersey and is fundamental to future success,” he said. “By working in partnership together, we can achieve so much more and at a greater pace to deliver a high-quality water environment.”
Overcoming Key Challenges
The strategy identifies several critical areas, or 'key enablers', that must be addressed to achieve its ambitious goals. These areas represent the practical steps needed to turn the vision into reality.
The Six Key Enablers
- Investment: Securing and increasing the funding available for water management projects.
- Resources and Skills: Ensuring that responsible authorities have the necessary staff, expertise, and knowledge.
- Policy Integration: Embedding water management considerations into all major regional decisions.
- Data and Evidence: Improving the collection and sharing of data to monitor progress and guide actions.
- Engagement: Fostering better communication between authorities, businesses, and the public.
- Spatial Planning: Making sure that new developments and regional growth account for their impact on the water system.
A significant challenge noted in the plan is the prevalence of combined sewer systems in parts of the region. These systems carry both sewage and rainwater, and they can become overwhelmed during heavy downpours, leading to overflows that pollute waterways. Upgrading this infrastructure is a priority.
The new vision is considered a crucial step towards creating a more detailed Integrated Water Management Plan, which will provide a roadmap for implementing these enablers and achieving a sustainable water future for the Liverpool City Region.