Project update: BRIL- New Action Plan launched for the River Irk

  • New Action Plan developed to bring the River Irk to life

  • The Action Plan identifies and prioritises restoration projects and provides a funding strategy

A new Action Plan has been launched (22nd October 2021) for the River Irk, that will help transform this neglected river into a thriving waterway that brings people and nature together.

The plan has been produced as part of the ‘Bringing the River Irk to Life’ (BRIL) Natural Course project, and is based on both environmental and socio-economic data, and new information and local knowledge gathered from public consultations.

80 actions were identified (ranging from catchment wide initiatives to improve water quality to site specific river restoration schemes) and prioritised based on how they contribute to criteria such as environmental improvement, climate change, funding opportunity, socio-economic benefit and feasibility.

The top 20 actions have been taken forward for more detailed costing and funding work, with natural capital and biodiversity net gain assessments conducted to value the potential environmental and social improvements they will generate.

Craig Higson, Natural Course Collaborative Team Member says…

“This is a great example of a coordinated and collaborative approach to river corridor planning that will enable the restoration of the River Irk Catchment. 

The level of detail contained within the Action Plan makes it an extremely important document that will allow stakeholders to target specific funding streams, and by having potential projects ‘on the shelf’ it will make a big difference when funding does become available.”

Katherine Causer, Irwell Catchment Coordinator – Environment Agency says….

 “It has surprised and delighted me that even through the difficulties of a pandemic we have had such a positive response and enthusiastic participation from local people and stakeholders who are passionate about improving the river environment.”

Emma Lewin, Principal Geomorphologist, Atkins says…

“It’s been great to be part of the project that has considered the needs of the Irk catchment as a whole, and to produce an interactive Action Plan that will help the river and local people achieve their full potential.”

You can view the Action Plan here:  https://gwkgis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=ed821c8434b1454191d980d93fbd95a1

Or scan the QR code with your mobile device camera

QR code -when scanned by a mobile device, will take you to the BRIL Action Plan

BRIL QR Code