Sustainable Arnside Water Sub Group - key interests and activities

The Water Sub Group of Sustainable Arnside is committed to advancing environmental sustainability through a focus on two principal areas: water quality and water power. Our initiatives are aimed at both local and broader scales, reflecting our dedication to the well-being of the Arnside community and the wider UK.

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Water Quality Monitoring

An essential part of our work involves monitoring and testing water quality in and around Arnside, as well as comparing our findings with data from other regions across the United Kingdom. We undertake regular sampling and analysis to ensure the safety and cleanliness of our water sources, helping to protect local ecosystems and public health. By benchmarking our local results against national data, we gain valuable insights into environmental trends and challenges. This comparative approach enables us to identify areas for improvement and to advocate for effective water management practices. For a more detailed explanation of our approach to water quality monitoring click here. You can also volunteer to join us in sampling the river water as part of the twice yearly “Water Blitz” events organised by Freshwater Watch.  You can register for information about the next event  on their website .

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Exploring Water Power

The sub group is also deeply interested in the sustainable generation of electricity using water power. We are exploring opportunities for harnessing local water resources to produce clean, renewable energy. Our work includes evaluating potential sites, technologies, and partnerships that could make water-powered electricity a viable and beneficial option for Arnside. We were delighted to welcome Dr David Howard, Professor George Aggidis and Mr Simon Baker to give a presentation on the possibilities for tidal power in the estuary. To read more about their ideas click here.

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Free Water Butts for Arnside residents

Sustainable Arnside is very grateful to United Utilities for awarding £2500 worth of water butts from their Better Rivers Community Fund. This has enabled 54 water butts of various sizes to be provided (100L, 200L or 270L) for Arnside residents. They come with a kit enabling connection to a rainwater downpipe providing a source of clean water for gardening. But by collecting some of the rainwater they also help to mitigate against overflow of the wastewater system and unwanted discharges so contributing to the water quality of our local waterways, principally the Kent Estuary. This initiative ties in well with our other interests in water quality and water power.

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Get Involved

If you are keen to learn more about water quality or water power—or if you wish to become actively involved in the Water Sub Group—please get in touch with us (see below for contact details). Whether you have expertise to share or simply a passion for sustainability, your contribution would be most welcome.