The UK Government has announced more than £10 million in funding to restore rivers, lakes, and coastal areas across England damaged by sewage pollution.
A total of 51 community projects will benefit from the investment, which will be financed through fines imposed on water companies found guilty of polluting waterways.
The money comes from the Water Restoration Fund, which redistributes penalties issued to major suppliers including Anglian Water, South West Water, Thames Water, Yorkshire Water and United Utilities.
The programme will deliver a wide range of environmental improvements, including floodplain and riverbed repairs, habitat restoration, wildlife protection and water quality monitoring. Among the areas set to receive support are the River Witham in Lincolnshire, the Evenlode catchment in Oxfordshire and Hornsea Mere in Yorkshire.
Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said: “I share people’s anger at the damage caused by sewage pollution and want communities to once again feel they can take pride in their environment. This money from water company fines will be directed back into local projects to tackle pollution and support long-term plans for nature restoration. Under our Plan for Change we’re resetting the water industry – holding water companies to account and reinvesting in areas harmed by their rule breaking.”
The initiative is part of a wider strategy to improve water quality and biodiversity, while ensuring that polluting companies are held responsible for environmental damage.
