UK and Welsh Governments Unite in £1 Million Fund to Restore River Wye

In a major step towards tackling pollution in one of the UK’s most iconic rivers, the UK and Welsh Governments have announced a £1 million joint research initiative aimed at improving water quality in the River Wye.

The announcement was made during a roundtable discussion in Monmouth, where Deputy First Minister of Wales, Huw Irranca-Davies, and UK Water Minister, Emma Hardy, met with key stakeholders, including local farmers, environmental groups, and scientists, to kickstart efforts to protect the river.

A Cross-Border Collaboration for Clean Water

The new research programme will take a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to addressing pollution in the River Wye by:

• Identifying sources of pollution and environmental pressures affecting the river
• Examining the impact of farming practices and land management on water quality
• Testing and developing innovative solutions to improve river health
• Investigating the decline in wildlife and changes in water flow that impact local ecosystems

The initiative will work closely with local environmental organisations, farmers, and community scientists, including the Wye Catchment Partnership, the Nutrient Management Board, and farming groups such as Herefordshire Rural Hub and Farm Cymru.

Government Leaders Call for Action

Speaking after the visit, Welsh Deputy First Minister Huw Irranca-Davies emphasized the importance of collaboration in protecting the River Wye.

“This is an important step to protect the River Wye, and we are committed to continuing to work together to restore our rivers.”

“This research funding will support both nature recovery and sustainable farming practices to improve the local environment.”

“By bringing together expertise from both sides of the border and working closely with local groups, we can better understand the challenges facing the river and find the solutions that will make a difference.”

Water Minister Emma Hardy echoed the urgency of the issue, stressing that this funding is just the beginning of a wider effort to clean up the UK’s waterways.

“For too long, the River Wye has suffered from extreme pollution, leading to devastating effects on wildlife and impacting all those who live along its banks.”

“That is why we’re resetting relationships on both sides of the border to share our knowledge and make sure this research translates into real action.”

“Our Water (Special Measures) Act has laid the foundations for cleaning up the water system. As part of the government’s Plan for Change to grow the economy and make Britain better off, over £100 billion of private sector money is being invested into the water sector to upgrade and build infrastructure.”

Building on Previous Investments

This new £1 million research initiative is part of a broader UK-Welsh government partnership that includes a £20 million project focused on addressing soil phosphorus levels through the Land Use for Net Zero, People and Nature programme.

The findings from this research will directly inform wider government policies on water quality, environmental protection, and farming regulation, ensuring that future conservation efforts are both effective and sustainable.

A Nationwide Commitment to Cleaner Water

The Monmouth visit is part of a larger tour by the UK’s Environment Secretary and Water Minister to see how investments in water infrastructure are helping build homes, create jobs, and boost local economies. Dubbed the ‘Things Can Only Get Cleaner’ tour, the initiative highlights the UK Government’s commitment to improving water quality nationwide as part of its Plan for Change.

With government funding, scientific expertise, and local collaboration, the River Wye restoration project is set to be a model for cross-border environmental action—ensuring that one of Britain’s most treasured rivers is protected for future generations.