Oswestry implements natural water management scheme

Work is beginning on three key sites in Oswestry as part of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme demonstrator project. The initiative aims to use natural flood management to reduce flood risks, improve water management, and create greener spaces for residents and wildlife.

The project targets the Oswestry Central Car Park, where asphalt and fencing will be replaced with grass, reedbeds, and wildflower gardens to absorb surface water. At the Senior Citizens’ Club, new rain gardens and a sheltered entrance ramp with a green roof will be installed to mitigate flooding and freezing issues that currently restrict access. Additionally, the Oswestry Methodist Church Pre-School play area will be converted from concrete into a natural zone featuring tree pits, climbing plants, and rain gardens.

Local leaders, including Shropshire Council Cabinet member Sarah Marston, noted that the project demonstrates how working with nature can help communities become more resilient to climate change impacts.