New action plan launched to bring the River Irk to life

Photo: Google, DigitalGlobe

The River Irk in Middleton passes through Alkrington Woods Nature Reserve

A new action plan has been launched for the River Irk, which flows through Middleton, that will help transform the river into a thriving waterway that brings people and nature together.

The plan has been produced as part of the Bringing the River Irk to Life (BRIL) Natural Course project, and is based on both environmental and socio-economic data, and new information and local knowledge gathered from public consultations.

The long-term aim of the project is to make the river more natural, and provide a wider range of functions by reconnecting to its flood plain, allowing free passage of fish and linking habitats and wildlife along its length. The river corridor will be recognised as an asset and this will be reflected in protection and enhancement through the planning and development process.

Eighty actions have been identified, ranging from catchment wide initiatives to improve water quality to site specific river restoration schemes, and prioritised based on how they contribute to criteria such as environmental improvement, climate change, funding opportunity, socio-economic benefit and feasibility. 

The River Irk begins in Royton, passing through Chadderton and Middleton before meeting the River Irwell in Manchester city centre. The Irk counts Wince Brook, Trub Brook, and Whit Brook amongst its tributaries.

Katherine Causer, Irwell catchment coordinator at the Environment Agency, said: “The Environment Agency is as committed as ever to protecting and enhancing our environment, but if we are going to become the first generation to leave the environment in a better state than we found it, then we need all parts of society to play a part.

“I am delighted that even through the difficulties of the pandemic we have had such a positive response and enthusiastic participation from local people and stakeholders who are passionate about improving the river environment.”

Craig Higson, natural course collaborative team member, said: “This is a great example of a coordinated and collaborative approach to river corridor planning that will enable the restoration of the River Irk Catchment. 

“The level of detail contained within the action plan makes it an extremely important document that will allow stakeholders to target specific funding streams, and by having potential projects ‘on the shelf’ it will make a big difference when funding does become available.”

Emma Lewin, principal geomorphologist at Atkins, said: “It’s been great to be part of the project that has considered the needs of the Irk catchment as a whole, and to produce an interactive action plan that will help the river and local people achieve their full potential.”

The top 20 actions have been taken forward for more detailed costing and funding work, with natural capital and biodiversity net gain assessments conducted to value the potential environmental and social improvements they will generate. 

You can view the action plan here.