£247,000 National Lottery Boost for Roots in the River Project
An environmental charity has received National Lottery funding for a project aimed at connecting people with the natural and industrial heritage of local watercourses. The Roots in the River project is led by the Aire Rivers Trust and backed by a £247,000 grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Project Scope and Locations
The initiative will run over the next 18 months and focuses on waterways including the River Worth through Keighley, Fagley Beck, and other smaller streams within the Bradford area.
Project Goals and Activities
A spokesperson stated:
"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."
The project will involve walks, talks, practical volunteering, and other activities to emphasize the links between natural and industrial heritage while promoting river and beck restoration.
Special attention will be given to engaging communities that are traditionally underrepresented in environmental activities, encouraging them to visit and connect with local rivers.
Community Involvement
The trust encourages people from the affected areas to get involved by contacting them to help design and deliver nature activities along the watercourses.
Author’s summary: The Roots in the River project fosters community connection with local waterways, highlighting their ecological and historical importance through funded activities over 18 months.