Events begin in Mid Wales for water management scheme plans

The scheme focuses on the Severn Valley and aims to address long-term flood risk.

The first information session of the consultation, held in Melverley, attracted strong interest from people in the area.
Eight further events are planned.

Tom Dainty, deputy cabinet member at Shropshire Council, said: "It was fantastic to see so many members of the public, and particularly the farming and landowning community, at the Melverley session.

"Their interest, questions and willingness to engage are absolutely vital to the success of this project.

"The knowledge and experience they bring will help to shape a strategy that not only addresses flood risk but also supports the future of local agriculture and rural livelihoods.

"We are committed to working alongside farmers and landowners to develop solutions that are practical, sensitive to local needs, and deliver real benefits for the whole community.

"I would really urge people to attend the community information sessions if they can, and to look at the emerging plan online too."

The events are being led by the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme, a cross-border project led by the Environment Agency in partnership with Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council and Shropshire Council, and funded by Defra.

Its goal is to develop a holistic water management strategy for the upper Severn, which could serve as a model for similar projects nationwide.

Each session runs from 2pm to 7pm and is open to everyone.

People can view materials, ask questions and give feedback that will help shape the draft strategy.

Consultation materials are also available online, as well as in libraries and leisure centres across Powys and Shropshire.

Sessions will take place on January 13 in Bettws, January 15 in Welshpool, January 20 in Shrewsbury, January 28 in Caersws, January 30 in Minsterley, February 4 in Oswestry, February 9 in Llanfyllin and February 12 in Llanidloes.

Each event will offer an opportunity for communities to contribute directly to water management priorities for the region.

A draft water management strategy will be produced following the consultation, with further opportunities for public input scheduled for later in 2026.

For more information or to access consultation materials and provide feedback, visit www.severnvalleywatermanagementscheme.commonplace.is.