Climate change will affect all aspects of our lives, including the supply and use of fresh water. The way we control and protect river water will become increasingly crucial, especially in heavily populated areas and at times of either low or excessive rainfall.

RSA are supporting plans by the Thames Rivers Restoration Trust (TRRT) for the regeneration of Mayesbrook in East London. At present, Mayesbrook is constrained in an artificial channel with low flood storage capacity, poor water quality, little wildlife and no public access to enjoy the river.

With climate change bringing more heavy rainfall events, the risk of the channel overflowing and causing flooding increases. TRRT is suggesting removing the concrete channels to enlarge and open up the channel and recreate a more natural river shape.

TRRT is also advocating the creation of a 1-hectare floodplain, to store high water flows in a natural way. The proposals would also show how natural techniques can help manage flooding at a reduced cost.

RSA is contributing funds to the Thames Rivers Restoration Trust to help develop the new floodplain wetland the heart of the park. The wetland will be an example of a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS). WWF is campaigning for SUDS to be introduced across England and Wales.

WWF will use the Mayesbrook restoration as an example of how SUDS can help deliver natural flood management, improved water quality and other benefits in an urban area.

TRRT is also promoting plans to plant new trees and shrubs, to create new pathways and walks and to build a café with an exhibition about climate change and the regeneration of the park. The park would then be a great asset in an area of social deprivation, with community projects aimed at providing local people with amenities and reducing crime. RSA employee volunteers will help in building and supporting the project.

Many partners have come together to help develop the Mayesbrook project plan. In addition to TRRT and RSA, they include the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham (where the park is located), the Environment Agency for England and Wales, Natural England, and the London Wildlife Trust.