A nature-based solution to reduce flood risk on the Rea Brook

At Cruckmeole near Hanwood, a new wetland is helping to slow the flow, reduce flood risk and create space for nature. The site is part of the Rea Brook Demonstrator project, one of eight schemes under the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme. Together, these projects are exploring how natural flood management can improve resilience to flooding and climate change across the Upper Severn.

A landowner’s vision becomes reality

The story of Cruckmeole Wetland began almost five years ago. The landowner had seen firsthand how heavy rain raced off the surrounding hills, flooding the nearby road and rushing into the Rea Brook. He imagined a wetland that could hold water back, ease flood risk for the community and bring more wildlife onto the farm.

When the Demonstrator programme launched, his idea found the support it needed. Working together, we designed a system that balanced ecological sensitivity with flood storage. The landowner was closely involved at every stage, from shaping the layout of the scrapes and pools to hosting site visits that helped inspire others.

What we built

• A large offline wetland pool around 100 metres long.

• A series of smaller scrapes and ponds that fill and empty depending on the weather.

• Controlled inflows and outflows so water can be held back and released slowly into the ditch system.

• Construction completed in June 2025 by WM Longreach.

Ecological surveys guided the design to make sure species-rich habitats were protected.

Why it matters

The wetlands are predicted to hold between 400 and 500 cubic metres of water in storm events. This slows the speed that floodwater reaches the Rea Brook and reduces the risk to the nearby A-road and surrounding communities.

Monitoring equipment, including a camera trap and gauge board, will record how the site performs in different weather conditions. These results will provide evidence for future projects across the Severn catchment.

Voices from the project

Cecilia Young, Catchment Officer with Severn Rivers Trust, said:

“The design was carefully adapted following ecological surveys to protect species-rich habitats, demonstrating a commitment to biodiversity alongside flood resilience. This project also served as a test case for navigating planning and regulatory frameworks. We are looking forward to collating the data and showing the benefits of nature-based solutions to water management.”

Tom Dainty, Deputy Cabinet Member for Environment at Shropshire Council, said:

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when landowners, local authorities and environmental organisations work together. The landowner’s vision and commitment were instrumental in overcoming challenges and delivering a wetland that will benefit both people and nature.”

Looking ahead

The wetland has already attracted national interest. In July 2025 the parliamentary Environmental Audit Committee visited the site to see natural flood management in practice. Their inquiry into flood resilience highlighted Cruckmeole as a strong example of what can be achieved on the ground.

By tracking how the wetlands perform and sharing the results, we hope to accelerate delivery of similar schemes across the Severn. Cruckmeole Wetland shows what is possible when local ambition, patient stewardship and practical support come together to create solutions that work for people and wildlife.