Wicklow Looks For Nature-Based Solutions To Restore Flow At Aughrim River

The SpongeWorks team in Wicklow will collaborate with landowners in the upper Aughrim River catchment and the Aughrim community

Wicklow County Council has been selected for an EU Horizon project  - SpongeWorks.

The project, in partnership with other local organisations Wicklow Uplands Council, the East Wicklow Rivers Trust and LAWPRO, will help shape a more sustainable future for Wicklow.

The initiative will focus on restoring the upper Aughrim River's ability to manage water flow by implementing nature-based solutions.

The council hopes SpongeWorks will help enhance the landscape’s capacity to absorb rainfall, reduce flooding and drought risks, and restore vital ecosystems.

Wicklow is the only region from Ireland selected for this project. All participating regions across Europe will work together, sharing knowledge to implement sponge measures and strategies into local governance and planning.

Emer O'Gorman, Chief Executive of Wicklow County Council, stated: 

“The Aughrim River project will strengthen partnerships in addressing the challenges of building climate resilience in our river catchments. This initiative will lead to reduced flooding, improved water quality, soil protection and restoration of biodiversity. Better water retention in the uplands will also ensure a reliable water supply throughout the year.”