UK invests £1.8bn in London waterway upgrades and £5.2m in East Anglia safety projects

London's mayor, Sadiq Khan, announced a £1.8 billion funding package from water companies, boroughs and charities to clean waterways, create new parks and promote wild‑swimming at ten selected sites across the capital. The money will support pollution reduction, habitat restoration and improved public access in boroughs such as Barnet, Brent, Hounslow and Newham.

Separately, the Environment Agency is spending £5.2 million on safety and environmental upgrades along Anglian Waterways in East Anglia. Works include replacing lock gates, installing solar panels at Titchmarsh Lock on the River Nene, and stabilising lock chambers on the River Great Ouse to ensure reliable navigation for boaters.

Both initiatives aim to boost water‑related recreation, protect wildlife and enhance flood resilience in their respective regions.