Trent ReNEW: Staffordshire University Grounds: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust

Delivered in partnership with the Environment Agency, Wild Trout Trust and Staffordshire University, this project is building on the success of an innovative river restoration scheme along the River Trent. The first phase reconnected the river with its floodplain through the creation of backchannels, lowering of river banks and the re-alignment of sections of the channel, allowing the river to function more naturally and restoring wetland habitats alongside the watercourse.

Since completion, Staffordshire University has observed a reduction in flooding across the campus grounds as the restored floodplain has become more effective at storing and managing water. Building on these early successes, the proposed second phase will extend restoration works upstream, replicating and expanding the benefits already demonstrated. The project will further enhance river health, improve flood resilience and support the recovery of natural processes along this important section of the Trent.

Rivers 2040

A Rivers 2040 project is a place-based freshwater restoration initiative that contributes to the long-term recovery of river catchments through nature-based solutions. Projects can range from restoring floodplains and wetlands, improving water quality, reconnecting rivers to their natural processes, creating habitat for wildlife, reducing pollution, increasing access to nature, or helping communities become more resilient to flooding and drought.

Rivers 2040 aims to bring together multiple environmental, social and economic benefits at a catchment scale, demonstrating how investment in nature can support healthier rivers, thriving wildlife, resilient communities and sustainable economic growth.

Land ownership

Third-party owned: land owned by private individuals, businesses, public bodies, charities, or other organisations.

Delivery approach

Direct delivery: the project delivers change through on-the-ground activity within the project area, implementing interventions that restore, enhance or manage habitats and natural processes.

Project readiness

Scoping: feasibility work is underway to define the project, understand risks and opportunities, establish delivery requirements, and assess environmental, social and financial outcomes.

Partners and funding

Delivery of this project may be supported by a range of partners and funding mechanisms. Funding may already have been secured from multiple sources and at different stages, contributing towards the overall project value and delivery costs. Contact us to explore current funding requirements and how the project could be developed and delivered with your organisation.

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Project benefits

Nature slows the flow

Natural flood management

Natural solutions such as tree planting, reconnecting floodplains and wetland creation, slow the flow of water through catchments, helping to reduce flood risk downstream to homes and businesses. These measures support wildlife, store carbon and improve water quality too.

A group of adults and children in a community garden opposite a block of flats. The sign reads 'Forest Garden' and there are bushes and sunflowers, amongst other plants

Nature supports neighbourhoods

Community benefits

Restoring our rivers and surrounding areas helps people access nature-rich spaces, supporting their mental and physical wellbeing, and helping prevent illnesses. It improves air and water quality, and helps communities cope with flooding, drought and extreme heat.

This Rivers 2040 project is hosted on the Royal Society of Wildlife Trusts' website on behalf of Wildlife Trusts. Project goals, fundraising totals and other information reflect the latest information available at the point of publication and may be subject to change.