The Issue for Shropshire

The River Severn is the lifeblood of Shropshire, as it snakes through our towns, our countryside, our minds, culture and history. It is the very core of the land’s mythology and its ecological essence. Her water holds the memories of all that has come before us filled with centuries of culture and traditions and endless physical and spiritual nourishment. As the heart of a vast beautiful environment that underpins the wellbeing of humans and non-humans, the River Severn deserves our protection.   

Yet like many UK rivers, the River Severn is currently being used as nothing more than an open sewer, filled with human waste, industrial and domestic chemicals, agricultural and road run-off, litter and many other pollutants. Decades of badly planned drainage work associated with the building of houses, roads, factories, chicken sheds etc close to the river (but without sufficient thought as to how to deal with waste effectively) also continues to destroy the river's catchment area including green habitats that absorb water, creating flooding conditions that get progressively worse for towns down-river until the water ultimately reaches and pollutes the sea. It doesn't have to be like this.

That is why we are urging Shropshire Council to adopt a Charter for the Rights of the River Severn. Such an initiative can provide legal rights and recognition for the River Severn so that the River has a voice.

The proposed Rights are below.  These Rights are based on similar ones adopted by Councils along the River Wye in May 2026 but adapted to incorporate the views of Shropshire residents.

The Rights Charter for the River Severn through Shropshire 

To Flow and Function Naturally

To flow freely in its course and run naturally, free from obstructions and extractions that can damage the normal functioning of the river system.

Right to Biodiversity

To exist as a home for nature, with the right balance and diversity of native species specific to the River Severn and its tributaries including fish, insects, birds, animals and plants along the river banks which are lined with flourishing trees and native vegetation.

Right to be Free From Pollution

To exist in a state of good ecological health and not be subject to harmful levels of human-generated waste such as sewage, farm and road run-off, litter, chemicals and other pollutants that harm the wellbeing of the River Severn and all the lives that depend on clean water to thrive.

Right to be Supported by a Healthy Catchment

For water to flow through surrounding areas which are ecologically healthy in themselves, supporting the River Severn as a balanced, sustainable and resilient ecosystem.

Right to Regenerate

To recover, restore and redirect itself naturally, including by flooding natural wetlands, supported by intervention where necessary, to halt the decline in biodiversity and increase its abundance over time.

Right to Representation

To be represented at all levels from local to national, and have these Rights recognized in the determination of all matters that affect the River Severn and its tributaries’ health - now and in the future.

Supporting the Rights Charter means safeguarding the natural beauty and wellbeing of the Severn through Shropshire. It is a way to protect the River for us, future generations and all other species that depend on the River’s wellbeing.

Please sign the petition today to encourage Shropshire Council to adopt the charter and be part of the change to preserve the natural wonder of the River Severn.