The declaration recognises the threats and decline facing rivers, their tributaries, and streams, and the adverse effects this has on wildlife, the natural environment, and dependent communities.
It calls for collective action from relevant organisations and communities to protect and restore resilient, vibrant riverscapes for the benefit of wildlife and people.
The declaration, developed in collaboration with neighbouring councils, local conservation groups, and two Rivers Trusts, pertains to the Rother, Arun, and Adur rivers.
It represents a shared commitment to restore these local rivers, with the declaration for river recovery to be considered at a Horsham District Council cabinet meeting on January 29.
While the council does not have direct control over river restoration, the declaration reinforces its willingness to collaborate with other organisations on this important issue and to inspire local communities to act.
The proposal builds on existing efforts across the district to restore rivers, watercourses, and the wildlife they support.
Councillor Colette Blackburn, the Horsham District Council cabinet member for climate action and nature recovery, said: “Healthy rivers are a powerful ally in mitigating the effects of climate change; they can protect communities from flood and drought events, and they bolster biodiversity resilience.
“This declaration is another great example of the council showing leadership on protecting the environment and working to reverse the decline in nature.
“The good news is, that as a council, we are already making a lot of progress in the ongoing restoration of rivers and watercourses, much of which has been achieved through our ground breaking work with the Wilder Horsham District project, where the council works in partnership with the Sussex Wildlife Trust.
“Our waterways face many threats which will be made worse by climate change.
“These adversely impact on their overall health and the wildlife that depends on them, which in turn has adverse effects on Horsham District communities.”
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