AN environmental charity has been awarded National Lottery funding for a scheme 'connecting' people with the natural and industrial heritage of watercourses in the district.
The Roots in the River project is being spearheaded by the Aire Rivers Trust, supported by a £247,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Waterways featuring in the initiative – to run over the next 18 months – include the River Worth, through Keighley; Fagley Beck and other smaller becks in the Bradford area.
A spokesperson says: "From the time of the Industrial Revolution, these watercourses have been heavily altered, yet the becks and rivers are vital wildlife corridors – connecting habitats and enabling species movement. They're also valuable spaces for our communities to access nature locally.
"Through walks, other activities, talks and practical volunteering efforts we will highlight the importance of the connections between our natural and industrial heritage and restoring the rivers and becks. Where possible we'll focus on communities traditionally underrepresented in the environment, that typically spend less time visiting our rivers.
"We are calling on people from the areas concerned to contact us so that we can design and deliver nature activities at the watercourses. Activities could include the removal of litter and invasive plants, and footpath improvements.
"We'll also train people in Citizen Science activities, like riverfly monitoring, to gauge the ongoing health of the watercourses."
Among those backing the venture is Bradford district councillor Chris Hayden, who represents Eccleshill.
He says: "I am excited about the launch of the project, and the opportunities it will bring.
"I know that residents care deeply about this corner of our neighbourhood.
"The community outreach project will focus on areas including Fagley Beck, as it runs through Fagley and Ravenscliffe Woods towards Greengates.
"Roots in the River will provide a chance for people to get involved with activities that aim to improve wellbeing through access to nature, and improve habitats for wildlife."
Rachel Forsyth, the trust's chief executive, says: "We are incredibly excited to start work on our Roots in the River project, which represents a real change in how we work with communities and support the health of the river. Our aim is to understand what different people want and need from us and the river, overcoming barriers to involvement and deepening connection with local places and nature."
For more about the project and other Aire Rivers Trust activities, visit facebook.com/aireriverstrust
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