Historically, rivers have been fundamental to Manchester's economy. They are still such an important part of the city and our infrastructure.
As well as the canals, Manchester has three main river valleys; the Irk in the north, the Medlock in the centre and the Mersey in the south. The Irk and Medlock flow into the River Irwell, forming the boundary between the city and Salford. The River Mersey flows through the southern part of the City on its route towards the Manchester Ship Canal further downstream. The Bollin forms the border with Cheshire.
It’s important we manage Manchester’s waterways - and surface water - well to reduce the risk (and costs) of flooding.
Our rivers also provide vital environmental services, including:
- creating settings for investment and family life
- providing essential habitats for wildlife
- dilution for treated wastewater
- health and well-being benefits
- supporting temperature regulation of the urban heat island and water-based recreation
We are working with partners including United Utilities and the Environment Agency on river restoration as part of the major regeneration of North and East Manchester. The Our Rivers Our City webmap has been developed to support the strategy development.
Our Rivers, Our City Strategy Team
The Our Rivers, Our City Strategy has been developed over the last 18 months by:
- Manchester City Council
- United Utilities
- Far East Consortium
- Natural England
- Environment Agency
- Greater Manchester Combined Authority
Alongside a consultancy team of The Environment Partnership (TEP), Groundwork Greater Manchester and the Mersey Rivers Trust.
The Our Rivers, Our City Strategy is funded by the GrowGreen project. Alongside our partner cities in Valencia (Spain), Wroclaw (Poland), Brest (France), Zadar (Croatia) and Modena(Italy); we are refreshing our Green Infrastructure Strategy to accelerate and upscale the uptake and understanding of nature-based solutions.