The Weaver Gowy and Upper Mersey catchments are situated in Cheshire, an area characterised by its low lying rolling countryside and known for its farming, industrial legacy and salt mining industry.

The Upper Mersey runs through Greater Manchester as well as Cheshire, encompassing parts of the Peak District National Park. Around half of the Upper Mersey catchment is known to be “heavily Modified” by the Water Framework Directive, due to its urban location and historic changes to the channel.

The Weaver Gowy catchment also incorporates many Sites of Biological Importance and Sites of Special Scientific Interest. The catchment is also known for otters, the Lesser Silver Water beetle and the native White Clawed Crayfish.

Natural Course will work alongside land owners, farmers and communities on the ground, to source low cost solutions and to overcome barriers to improve its water environment.

The Weaver Gowy Catchment Partnership is hosted by Groundwork CLM and the Upper Mersey is hosted by Mersey Rivers Trust.