A multi-million pound plan to restore the River Teme is a step nearer today thanks to vital funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).  HLF has approved a development grant of £204,000 to allow the Severn Rivers’ Trust (SRT) to develop plans and apply for a full £3million grant for its Springs of River project that will restore the wildlife and revitalise the historic communities along the river. The beauty of the River Teme was immortalised in AE Housman’s collection of poems A Shropshire Lad, but in the 118 years since it was published the river has suffered a drastic change. Despite its high conservation status, species such as salmon and eel are in serious decline and wildflower meadows and woodlands that once characterised the river valley are being lost.

The Springs of Rivers project, which will be managed by SRT, aims to reconnect and improve more than 200km of river through a number of linked initiatives. These will include practical conservation; a range of community events; improving access to the river; and creating volunteering opportunities and apprenticeships.  A new visitor centre will form a hub for the community across the river.  An educational programme is also planned that will aim to work with schools and their local rivers and streams across the region.

For further details contact Mike Morris, mike@severnriverstrust.com 07970 451601

http://severnriverstrust.com/news/springs-of-rivers-project-receives-hlf-funding/