A Changing Windermere: Reflecting on Events and Next Steps
During March and April, the Love Windermere Partnership has been out in the community, sharing the findings of “A Changing Windermere” report through a series of public roadshows and a dedicated business event. These events have provided an opportunity for local residents, businesses, and visitors to engage with the latest scientific research on Windermere’s water quality, ask questions, and learn about the actions being taken to protect the lake for future generations.
A Positive Response from the Community
At our roadshow events, held in various locations around the Windermere catchment, we met with many people who share a deep passion for the lake. From long-time residents to first-time visitors, the conversations were open, insightful, and demonstrated a collective desire to see Windermere thrive.
Visitors had the chance to explore key findings from the report, including:
- The combined scientific findings, both positive and negative, regarding the ecological status of Windermere’s water quality.
- The impact of climate change on the lake’s temperature and biodiversity.
- The role of nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen in water quality.
- The importance of continued collaboration between businesses, communities, and environmental groups.
The discussions were engaging, with many attendees expressing interest in how they can take individual action, whether through responsible water use, reducing pollution, or supporting local conservation efforts.
Engaging with Local Businesses
Held by key business representatives, this session provided an opportunity for Love Windermere to discuss the findings of A Changing Windermere. Businesses rely on the lake not only for its natural beauty but also for the economic benefits it brings to the region. With an estimated annual contribution of £753 million to the local economy and over 7 million visitors each year, it is clear that protecting Windermere is vital to the community’s long-term prosperity.
Many businesses expressed their support for ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability. Discussions focused on practical steps businesses can take, from improving wastewater management to educating visitors on responsible tourism.
National and Local Media Coverage
The release of A Changing Windermere has also gained significant attention in both local and national media. Coverage from BBC, regional newspapers, and environmental publications has helped highlight the importance of ongoing action and the work of the Love Windermere Partnership.
Key media moments included Interviews with Love Windermere Partners discussing A Changing Windermere finding on BBC Look North and ITV Border. Love Windermere Partnership’s independent Chair Nigel Wilkinson was also able to highlight the report’s findings on BBC Breakfast as part of a wider discussion on water issues.
We hope this media attention is helping to ensure that the conversation around Windermere’s future remains at the forefront of public interest and audiences are aware of the actions being taken to make improvements.
What’s Next?
The Love Windermere Partnership remains committed to delivering real action. Following these events, our next steps include:
- Publishing the Windermere Action Plan this summer – setting out clear, science-led steps for tackling pollution, restoring habitats, and ensuring a sustainable future for the lake.
- Continuing to engage with businesses, residents, and visitors – providing accurate, transparent information about water quality and how people can play a role in protecting Windermere.
- Ongoing scientific monitoring – working with leading research institutions to track progress and adapt our approach as needed.
Thank you to everyone who attended an event, shared their thoughts, or engaged with us through the media. The future of Windermere depends on collaboration, and we’re grateful to be working alongside so many dedicated individuals and organisations.
If you missed our roadshows, you can still explore A Changing Windermere and don’t forget to sign up for the latest news and updates in our Love Windermere newsletter.