Centre for Living with Climate Change (CLiCC)
The University of Chester is leading the development of a Centre for Living with Climate Change (CLiCC) as one of the demonstrator projects managed by Shropshire Council under the Severn Valley Water management scheme, a 4.5million DEFRA funded project, with the Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Shropshire Council and Powys County Council. This initiative aims to address local environmental, social, and economic needs by promoting green growth and bridging the region's skills gap in water management. Community, business, academia, and authority will help co-design CLiCC to serve as a hub for innovation and education, offering pathways to develop much-needed skills in this growing sector.
The Severn River Basin in the Upper Marches is a crucial part of the area's ecosystem and economy and plays a central role in this vision. Beyond its environmental importance, the basin provides economic benefits through river-based heat networks, agriculture, tourism, and more. With the potential to generate substantial value, investments in water management skills could create long-term benefits for the region, including job creation and increased productivity.
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About the Project
One of the key challenges facing the region is a shortage of professionals in water-related fields, with a current need for over 200 specialists. This shortage, combined with an aging population and out-of-area migration, poses a threat to the local economy. By focusing on improving qualifications and developing green jobs, the Marches could see a significant boost in economic and social capital, potentially adding nearly £3 billion to the region's Gross Value Added (GVA). These challenges will be addressed using participatory action research, conducted by the University of Chester in consultation with partners.
The establishment of CLiCC would not only enhance the area's international reputation for water expertise but also provide a platform for attracting young professionals, fostering innovation, and boosting the local economy. With the growing importance of climate adaptation and mitigation, this initiative could position the Marches at the forefront of green growth, drawing both people and business to the area while ensuring sustainable development for the future.
In essence, CLiCC is a vital project to secure the region’s future by building a green workforce, supporting sustainable innovation, and addressing the climate crisis, all while maintaining and building the Marches’ reputation for expertise in water management.
What is the Marches?
The regional term of the Marches areas is used for simplicity to cover Powys, Shropshire, Herefordshire and Monmouthshire. The name of the region derives from the plural of the medieval word marca or mearc, a mark of a boundary or a border, such as that between England and Wales. The area has shared characteristics in its rural nature, agricultural outputs, and rich history still visible today. Learn more about the Marches Forward Partnership.