Ousewem has launched a new flagship initiative in York, designed to reconnect residents with their rivers and neighbourhoods, whilst inspiring action on flood resilience and climate change.
Building on the success of natural flood management (NFM) projects across the Swale, Ure, Nidd and Upper Ouse catchments, this new riverside route will tell the story of how communities, landscapes and local leadership are coming together to shape a more climate-resilient future.
The project, will be co-designed with residents, schools and stakeholders, is being delivered in partnership with Innovate Educate -a creative consultancy known for embedding research, participation and place-based learning into every stage of their work.
Councillor Jenny Kent, Executive Member for Environment and Climate Emergency at City of York Council, added:
“This project shows our commitment to working with York communities in visible and lasting ways.
"By telling the story of our rivers and the actions being taken to reduce flooding, we are helping people understand the value of nature-based solutions – not just in the countryside but here in the heart of the city.”
Karen Merrifield, Director of Innovate Educate, said:
“We believe creativity is a core part of climate resilience -not an afterthought.
"This project is about more than signage or information, it is about co-creating something that belongs to York’s communities. From schoolchildren to heritage professionals, everyone has a part to play in imagining a future shaped by care, connection and the river itself.”
The route will feature creative elements and educational resources, helping residents and visitors of all ages explore how nature-based solutions, land use and local action are shaping a safer, greener future for York. It will also act as a platform for partnerships that connect climate resilience with the region’s rich cultural assets - from libraries and archives to heritage schools and local artists.
Opportunities for sponsorship may also be explored, supporting further investment in climate resilience and nature recovery across York and North Yorkshire. Just as rivers connect places upstream and downstream, this project links people across the catchment – from rural landowners to city residents – in a shared effort to live better with water.
Early engagement will begin this summer, with schools, community groups and partners invited to shape how the story of York’s rivers is shared.