Water Conservator Past Master Dr Peter Matthews joined with Mark Lloyd, the founder of Thames21 and Chief Executive of the Rivers Trust, to debate the quality of our rivers and who is to blame. The packed event was organised by the Plumbers’ Company in the Wax Chandlers Hall. We heard the history of the management of our rivers, the parties involved, the current state of our waterways and the increasing public concerns about water quality. The speakers described the extent of the crisis, the political economic and social pressures and the need for change in the way we value and manage water.
There was agreement on the need for integrated catchment management and nature based solutions. Also recognition that more river management planning was required rather than more legislation. While there was some criticism of the regulators and a question as to whether consolidation was required it was clear that they needed more resources. The audience picked up on the pressures for land development and growth without the provision of the necessary water supply and waste water management which was making the situation worse.
The evening was supported by several corporate sponsors and the Plumbers Charity Trust, and attended by Masters and representatives of several Livery Companies and guests. Discussions continued over Champagne at the Hall before we moved to Brasserie Blanc for a super dinner. Congratulations to the Plumbers’ Company for organising a facinating and enjoyable evening.
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