THERE are only a few weeks left to help shape how water environments across the region will be looked after over the next five years.

The Environment Agency set out new plans for rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal areas, wetlands and groundwater six months ago and the consultation runs until Friday, April 10.

River basin planner Jeff Pacey said: “The water quality of our rivers, lakes and coasts has improved significantly over recent years, but there is much more that we can do.

“By commenting on these plans, you can play an important role in ensuring that our water environment continues to improve.”

Water environments provide many benefits including drinking water, an essential resource for business and agriculture, as well as providing transport links and social benefits.

Since the first Northumbria River Basin Management Plan was written back in 2009, more than 20km of river and almost 800 hectares of habitats have been improved, including becks in Middlesbrough and the River Derwent.

This has seen a greater abundance of wildlife and a reduction in the amount of chemicals in the water.

The Environment Agency has carried out more than 700 investigations to discover what can be done to improve any remaining issues.

To view the draft plan and have your say visit gov.uk and search for ‘river basin update.’

Comments can be emailed to NorthumbriaRBD@environment-agency.gov.uk or send to Jeff Pacey, Environment Agency, Lateral, 8 City Walk, Leeds, LS11 9AT.