Hi there Welcome to the November Newsletter!
Hi there,
Welcome to the Love Windermere November newsletter
This issue marks a milestone for the partnership: the launch of the Love Windermere Action Plan — a science-led roadmap setting out 33 practical actions to improve water quality and restore the health of England’s largest lake. It’s an important step forward, and can be made even better through collaboration across our community.
Since the launch, we’ve been engaging widely to build awareness and support. From presenting at the Cumbrian Lakes Research Forum to answering questions from local councillors and connecting with the Windermere Business Partnership, these conversations are helping turn ambition into action.
You’ll also find updates on other important work we are involved in, including the “Only Rainwater into Windermere” study, new insights from citizen science projects, and stories from partners tackling water quality challenges head-on.
Momentum is building — and together, we’re making progress toward a healthier future for Windermere.
Partnership Unveils New Action Plan for Windermere’s Future
The Love Windermere Partnership has launched its Action Plan – the first coordinated, science-led programme of practical actions in over a decade, aiming to improve water quality and restore the ecological health of the Windermere catchment.
Why Windermere Matters to Me
When people hear my name, they often think “businessman.” And yes, I’ve spent more than two decades working in and around Windermere, leading a company that employs over 150 local people. But what many don’t see is why I care so deeply about this place — and why I give my time voluntarily to chair the Love Windermere Partnership.
Only Rainwater into Windermere
“Only Rainwater into Windermere” is an innovative and exciting feasibility study tasked with delivering options that result in only rainwater entering the lake, with sewage and highways runoff being removed.
Working Together for Windermere: Community Conversations
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been connecting with key groups to share the Action Plan and gather ideas on how we can work together. These conversations are helping shape delivery — and everyone who cares about Windermere has a role to play.
United Utilities investment in Ambleside
Over the next five years, from 2025 to 2030, United Utilities is delivering its largest ever programme of investment in the area. The multi-million pound investment plan will both upgrade treatment standards at nine wastewater treatment works across Windermere and also create extra storage capacity to reduce spills from storm overflows, all helping to further improve water quality in the lake.
Citizen scientists help to ‘Water Watch’ at Windermere
An ongoing citizen-science initiative at Windermere revealed initial results on water quality and environmental attitudes. In September 2024, the Environment Agency launched Water Watch, a pilot project using Hello Lamp Post, an AI tool, to collect citizen science data.
Strengthening Commitment to Protect Lake Windermere
The Environment Agency Chair, Alan Lovell, met with Nigel Wilkinson MBE, Independent Chair of the Love Windermere Partnership, to discuss a strengthened commitment to drive environmental action for Lake Windermere.
Private Sewage Treatment Rules and Responsibilities
Given that households are responsible for managing their non-mains sewage systems, there are several rules which need to be followed to avoid polluting the environment and ensure compliance with current regulations.
How You Can Get Involved
Whether you're new to Love Windermere or have supported us since the start, your engagement is key to our success. Here are a few ways you can help:
Participate: We share the latest opportunities for you to take part in research, citizen science, and events.
Share Our Work: Help spread the word to increase awareness and support for Windermere
Thank you for staying connected with the work of the Love Windermere Partnership. This issue shows what happens when science, community, and collaboration come together — but there’s still more to do. Protecting Windermere is a long-term journey, and it depends on the dedication of land managers, businesses, scientists, and supporters like you.
We’ll keep sharing updates and opportunities to get involved in the months ahead. In the meantime, visit our website to explore more news or get in touch to share your ideas.
Together, we can help secure a healthier future for Windermere.
