A series of projects across the Upper Severn catchment is helping to build a clearer picture of how nature‑based solutions are vital to better water management.
The work to date has created more than 8.6 hectares of new habitat, enhanced over six kilometres of watercourse and added 1,845 cubic metres of flood storage capacity.
Nearly 4,000 trees have been planted, alongside new wetlands and ponds that support biodiversity while also contributing to flood and drought resilience.
Delivered through the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme and managed by Shropshire Council, the demonstrators are testing practical measures that work with the landscape to slow, store and manage water.
Up to spring 2026, work at demonstrator sites including Guilsfield, Reabrook and Attingham has delivered a wide range of natural flood management features. These include large woody material barriers, new ponds and wetlands, soil aeration, tree planting, hedgerows and areas of wet woodland.
Together, these measures, delivered by the Severn Rivers Trust and the National Trust, help slow storm flows, encourage water to soak into the ground and provide temporary storage during periods of heavy rainfall.
As well as natural flood management opportunities the programme of demonstrator projects will explore the use of:
- Digital tools and technologies
- Farm scale economics
- Green finance
- Green skills agenda
- Peatland restoration and paludiculture (wet agriculture and forestry on peatlands)
- Sustainable urban water management
Tom Dainty, Shropshire Council deputy Cabinet member with responsibility for flooding, said:-
“These demonstrator projects show how working with nature can bring real benefits for communities.
“By testing practical solutions on the ground, we are building the evidence we need to make better long‑term decisions about managing flood risk, protecting wildlife and supporting a more resilient Severn catchment.”
Details of the individual projects can be found here.
The learning from the demonstrated projects will directly inform the ongoing development of the Severn Valley Water Management Strategy and future decision‑making across the catchment.
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