People to travel the length of the River Severn in push for the valley's future
The Severn Together journey runs from Llanidloes to Bridgnorth this September
Local people are set to travel the length of the River Severn next month as part of a community-led push to secure long-term investment in the region.
The journey, called Severn Together, will begin in Llanidloes on 1st September 2026 and finish in Bridgnorth on 6th September 2026.
Events will take place in communities across Powys and Shropshire along the way.
What is Severn Together?
The initiative brings together residents and community groups from across Powys and Shropshire.
It has been launched by the Marches Forward Partnership and the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme, which say it demonstrates growing momentum behind efforts to secure long-term investment in the region.
The journey will bring together communities from across Wales and England to share their experiences, celebrate the importance of the river and make the case for a thriving future for the Severn Valley.
'A simple idea'
Speaking on behalf of the Marches Forward Partnership, Shropshire Council deputy leader Alex Wagner said:
"We are delighted to see communities supporting this activity which reflects our shared desire to see greater investment in the region and a long-term approach to unlocking its economic, environmental and community potential.
"At the heart of the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme and the Marches Forward Partnership is a simple idea: by working together across Wales and England we can create the conditions for communities, businesses and the natural environment to thrive.
"Better management of one of the UK's most important river catchments can support investment, strengthen local economies, improve connectivity between communities and help make this a more attractive place to live, work and do business."
Taking the message to decision-makers
The timing comes as the Marches Forward Partnership prepares to make its case to politicians in Cardiff Bay and Westminster.
Alex Wagner said:
"The timing of this event is particularly welcome as the Marches Forward Partnership prepares to take this message directly to decision-makers in both Cardiff Bay and Westminster.
"We will be engaging with Members of the Senedd on 30 September and with UK Government on 19 October to make the case for long-term investment in the region. Being able to demonstrate strong support from communities, businesses and local organisations adds real weight to that conversation and shows that this is an ambition shared across the region."
The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme is described as a long-term partnership programme being developed across England and Wales to support sustainable economic growth, improve water security, enhance the natural environment and help communities adapt to future challenges.