East Staffordshire Borough Council, in partnership with the Environment Agency and other public and private sector partners, has launched a new shared Landscape Vision for the future of the Washlands.
The Washlands is an extensive piece of natural land that follows the river through to the heart of Burton upon Trent. The vision, informed by consultation with key stakeholders and the local community, addresses how to best balance the regular flooding of the area with the need for public access and recreation, whilst promoting nature conservation and a more environmentally sustainable approach to green space management.
Visitors will experience a welcoming place, which is healthy, safe and secure. It will be well maintained and clean, and will offer opportunities for family and friends to enjoy recreational time together. Wildlife and nature will thrive here, and there will be increased opportunities for local community involvement.
Councillor Jacqui Jones, Deputy Leader of the East Staffordshire Borough Council, said: “We have this great asset but it is something of a ‘hidden gem’. I am delighted with the Vision for the Washlands and thank every one of our partners for their input.
“I want us to create a regional tourist attraction to bring people to Burton upon Trent but I also want a facility for local residents and families to enjoy all year round. Somewhere families and friends can relax and enjoy a stress free day taking advantage of this wonderful natural resource we are lucky enough to have on our doorstep.
“The asset we have is invaluable. The Vision is great. We now need to find ways to make it happen.”
The Environment Agency is currently working on a new, multi-million pound flood defence scheme to better protect the residents of Burton upon Trent from the risk of flooding. Alongside this project, The Environment Agency will also be looking at undertaking a number of environmental enhancement projects within the Washlands, subject to Council approval.
Will Groves, from flood risk management with the Environment Agency said: “We’re delighted to be part of this project that will bring real benefits to the people of Burton. We’re investing over £30 million of government money to upgrade the town’s 9km of flood defences that already protect more than 7,000 homes and businesses.
“Improving the environment and helping create spaces that are more easy for people to use and enjoy is an important part of our flood defence work in Burton. We’re planning for work to start next year.”
Other partners involved in creating the Landscape Vision include The National Forest, Trent Rivers Trust, Transforming the Trent Value, The Wildlife Trusts Staffordshire.