A small pond in the new wetland at Cruckmeole – it is anticipated that the small pools may retain some water or dry up completely depending on weather conditions
A new wetland area has been created on a Shropshire farm as part of a pioneering initiative to reduce flood risk using nature-based solutions.
It is predicted the wetland at Cruckmeole Farm will deliver an estimated 400–500m³ of water storage, marking a significant step forward in nature-based solutions to water management.
The wetland forms part of the Rea Brook demonstrator project – one of eight demonstrator projects, managed by Shropshire Council, informing the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS), an ambitious, cross-border initiative designed to tackle flood risk and improve water resilience across the Upper Severn catchment in both England and Wales.
The wetland proposal was initiated by the landowner who wanted to reduce flood risk to the nearby A-road and surrounding areas and they worked with the Severn Rivers Trust, which is leading delivery of the Rea Brook demonstrator project, to design and deliver the system that balances ecological sensitivity with flood mitigation.
Constructed in June 2025, the design features a large offline pool and a series of smaller scrapes designed to slow the flow of water from surrounding hills and residential areas before it reaches the Rea Brook.
Cecilia Young, catchment officer with the Severn Rivers Trust, said:-
“The design was carefully adapted following ecological surveys to protect species-rich habitats, demonstrating a commitment to biodiversity alongside flood resilience.
“The project also served as a test case for navigating planning and regulatory frameworks, resulting in a unique agreement between Shropshire Council and the Rea Internal Drainage Board to streamline permissions under the Demonstrator scheme.
“We are looking forward to collating the data and seeing how this wetland will prove the benefits of nature-based solutions to water management.”
Tom Dainty, Shropshire Council deputy cabinet member with responsibility for the environment, said:-
“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when landowners, local authorities, and environmental organisations work together.
“The landowner’s vision, flexibility, and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges and delivering a wetland that will benefit both people and nature.”
Monitoring equipment, including a camera trap and gauge board, will be installed to track the wetland’s performance over time, ensuring the system continues to deliver flood storage benefits and informing future projects across the region.
About SVWMS: The SVWMS, is a partnership between the EA, Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council and Shropshire Council with the intention to tackle flooding, support thriving communities and create resilient environments through sustainable and holistic water management.
People can also keep up to date with progress of the scheme and all the latest news and events by viewing the SVWMS website, which seeks feedback from those with an interest in the scheme.
