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Nearly two million people live near the River Tame – the main river flowing out of Birmingham.

The River Tame and its floodplain is heavily influenced by human activity and has seen many changes. Over the last century areas of the floodplain have been drained, woodland has been cleared and the river has been heavily engineered and polluted.

Despite this historical damage, the river is now cleaner and the old sand and gravel workings, which once blighted the landscape, now help to form the largest series of interconnected wetlands in Warwickshire.

Where are the Tame Valley Wetlands?

The Tame Valley Wetlands are located between Birmingham and Tamworth, in North Warwickshire and south-east Staffordshire, following 29 km of the River Tame. The Wetlands cover an area of over 1,000 hectares, hosting a variety of important habitats and a rich diversity of species.

Why are wetlands important?

Wetlands are vital for both wildlife and people – they clean up our water and provide us with food and materials; they play a key role in reducing flooding and storing carbon; and they give us a special space to enjoy, improving our health and wellbeing.

Due to the area’s existing value and the potential to further improve this through wetland restoration and creation, the Tame Valley is recognised as a key place for large area conservation and partnership working, and part of a ‘Living Landscape’.

In 2017, the Tame Valley Wetlands became the first Nature Improvement Area to be designated in Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull.