River Trust to be established to promote and protect River Brosna

Funding of €4,897 was recently announced for Clara Heritage Society.

The funding will be used to establish a River Trust to promote and protect the River Brosna which flows through the centre of Clara.

The Department of Environment, Communities and Local Government (DECLG), together with the Local Authority Water and Communities Office (LAWPRO), is supporting the development of Rivers Trusts across Ireland. The aim is to foster collaboration, knowledge sharing, and community-led conservation in Ireland.

Alreadyseveral successful River Trusts are active, including the Slaney Rivers Trust, the Nore Suir Rivers Trust, and the Blackwater Rivers Trust. These trusts have made significant progress in river conservation and sustainable management.

Now, the Brosna River, Offaly’s fastest-flowing river and a national treasure will benefit from the establishment of its own River Trust. This initiative, led by the Clara Heritage Society, is supported by funding from LAWPRO (Local Authority Water Programme) and will bring a dedicated focus to the sustainable care and stewardship of the river. A key part of the work will involve implementing the recommendations outlined in the Brosna River SUDs Master Plan.

A considerable part of the Brosna River Trust’s mission will be to:

• Improve the quality of river water

• Ensure safe and environmentally sustainable use of and access to the river and its banks

• Secure and preserve the built heritage along the river

• Reconnect the community with the river, promoting appreciation, respect, and responsible use

The project represents a major cross-community collaboration and will require significant administrative coordination. Despite the challenges, the Clara Heritage Society is confident and excited to launch the Brosna River Trust at a public event this October, where the SUDs Master Plan will also be officially unveiled.

The Clara Heritage Society is inviting every town and village within the Brosna Catchment Area to nominate a representative to serve as a trustee. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of the river and contribute to a sustainable, connected community.

''Let’s come together to celebrate and protect the Brosna River, part of our shared natural heritage,'' said a spokesperson.