The River Isbourne is at the heart of Winchcombe. It supports wildlife, enhances our landscape, and is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Yet many local people have noticed a worrying decline in the abundance and diversity of wildlife in and around the river.
These local concerns reflect a growing national awareness of the poor state of many of England's rivers. Pollution from sewage discharges, together with runoff from agricultural fertilisers and chemicals, is having a serious impact on water quality and freshwater ecosystems.
To better understand the condition of our own river, Winchcombe Greentown launched a volunteer-led water quality monitoring programme in partnership with SafeAvon, which coordinates citizen science water testing across the River Avon catchment. We are also grateful to Winchcombe Town Council for providing funding to purchase the specialist testing equipment.
What have we found?
In May 2026 we completed our first full year of monthly testing. The results are deeply concerning.
Our monitoring has consistently recorded high to very high phosphate levels, which are most likely linked to sewage pollution, together with elevated nitrate levels, which are most likely associated with agricultural fertilisers and chemical runoff.
While further investigation by the relevant authorities is needed to establish the precise sources, the results clearly indicate that the River Isbourne is under significant environmental pressure.
Taking action
In May 2026 we presented our findings to Winchcombe Town Council and at a public meeting. Following a press release, the BBC reported on our work and the concerns raised by local residents.
Read the BBC article: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c0eynd2ndz7o
As a result of our findings, Winchcombe Town Council is writing to the Environment Agency and Severn Trent Water on behalf of the people of Winchcombe, calling for:
- A full investigation into sewage treatment works and combined sewer overflows serving the area, including the frequency of sewage spills and the adequacy of monitoring by Severn Trent Water.
- Greater investigation, inspection and regulation of agricultural practices where excessive use of fertilisers and other chemicals may be affecting the River Isbourne.
We are also writing to our local MP, Cameron Thomas, asking him to support these requests and to champion action to improve the health of our river.
Meanwhile, our volunteer river monitoring team will continue monthly testing until at least April 2027, building an even stronger body of evidence to support these calls for action.
How you can help
Protecting the River Isbourne will require support from the whole community. If you would like to help, there are several ways you can get involved:
- Sign the national petition calling for an end to sewage pollution in our rivers.
- Write to Winchcombe Town Council, your district councillors or our MP to express your support for stronger action to protect the River Isbourne.
- Volunteer with our river testing team. No previous experience is needed, and training will be provided.
Together, we can help ensure that the River Isbourne becomes a cleaner, healthier river for wildlife, for future generations, and for everyone who enjoys this special part of Winchcombe.