Many of the rivers in England are affected by sewage and agricultural waste, with those in the northern part of the country experiencing the highest rates of waste discharge.
New Environment Agency data shows 2023 was the worst year on record for storm water pollution. The river Irwell, which is a popular waterway for rowers, and surrounding catchment area is now the most frequent sewage dumping ground in England.
Storm overflows around the Irwell valley discharged raw sewage 12,000 times in 2023 — the highest rate of all English rivers when accounting for length, at 95 spills per mile.
We would like to hear about the environmental state of your local river and the nearby area. Are you aware of any sewage spills or other polluting factors? How has the river changed over time, and are you involved in any schemes to monitor or improve it? What impact has it had, if any?
