New Westminster report calls for urgent action: Clean Water Now

A powerful new report on the state of our rivers was presented to MPs in Westminster earlier this month (March 2026) calling for urgent, meaningful action to tackle water pollution across England.

The report, published by Wildlife and Countryside Link, brings together leading environmental organisations – including CPRE nationally – and sets out clear recommendations for restoring the health of our rivers. It highlights that while plans and commitments exist, the time for action is now.

Read the full report and take action here

CPRE Herefordshire Director Andrew McRobb attended the Westminster event, where there was strong cross-party recognition that improving water quality is a critical issue. Speakers included Water Minister Emma Hardy, Environment Audit Committee Chair Toby Perkins MP, and Liberal Democrat Environment Spokesperson Tim Farron MP. Herefordshire’s own MP, Ellie Chowns, also addressed the event, continuing her strong advocacy for the River Wye and Lugg catchments.

A key message from the event was clear: this is a “once in a Parliament” opportunity to tackle the systemic causes of river pollution. While government support is welcome, there were calls for firm action to ensure that proposed measures are not weakened or delayed.

For Herefordshire, this is especially important. The River Wye and wider Wye Catchment is central to our landscape, our wildlife, and our communities. Yet it continues to face significant pressures from pollution, including agricultural runoff and waste management challenges.

Locally, there is growing momentum for stronger protections. Ellie Chowns MP is calling for a Water Protection Zone (WPZ) for the Wye catchment – a measure that could introduce tighter controls to reduce pollution at source. Early support for this proposal is already being gathered, demonstrating the strength of feeling within our community.

At CPRE Herefordshire, we know that lasting change happens when national action is backed by local voices. That’s why this campaign matters.

You can be part of it.

The report includes a simple tool to write to your MP and call for urgent action on clean water. It takes just a couple of minutes, but it helps show decision-makers that people across the country – and here in Herefordshire – care deeply about the future of our rivers.

Take action here

As a charity, CPRE Herefordshire works to promote, enhance and protect the countryside for everyone’s benefit, and tackling water pollution is a vital part of that mission. Healthy rivers support wildlife, farming, recreation, and the wellbeing of our communities.

Together, we can help make sure our rivers are restored and protected – now and for generations to come. Find our more about our work here.

Join us