Community drop-in focus on town water management

Oswestry town centre

People living in Oswestry, community groups and local leaders are being invited to a Community Get Together on Wednesday 11 February, to find out more about a project to de-pave the town and improve water management in urban areas.

The Oswestry Depave Project, is one of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme (SVWMS) eight demonstrator projects managed by Shropshire Council and delivered by Shropshire Wildlife Trust.

The project is transforming paved urban areas into greener, more permeable public spaces designed to better manage rainfall, reduce surface water flooding, and support local biodiversity.

Features such as rain gardens, swales, green roofs and other Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are already being introduced to help the town absorb and manage water more naturally.

Jenna Shaw, who is leading the project for Shropshire Wildlife Trust said:-

“This project is about far more than adapting hard surfaces.

“It’s about empowering local people to shape the places they live in, creating greener, more welcoming spaces that work better for both the community and the environment.

“It would be lovely to work with other community groups in the town to share ideas and to actively involve them in the process too.”

Pete Lambert, SVWMS demonstrator project manager, added:-

“Recent community meetings have shown growing interest in supporting the project long‑term, including discussions about forming a Community Interest Company to help develop future ideas.

“Local people have suggested creative and community‑focused SuDS concepts, from edible planting schemes to child‑friendly rain garden areas, reflecting a strong interest in the project and the benefits it can bring to the town and beyond.”

The Depave project aims to increase water permeability and reduce localised flooding. Recent installations, including green‑roofed bus shelters in the town centre, demonstrate how small changes can help slow rainwater, support wildlife and improve public space.

As part of the wider SVWMS, the Oswestry project will provide learning and evidence to support similar initiatives across the upper Severn catchment, contributing to long‑term climate resilience and improved natural habitats.

The open event will take place from 7pm to 9pm at Oswestry Memorial Hall.

For more details on the SVWMS please visit: Have Your Say Today – Severn Valley Water Management Scheme – Commonplace