Climate Emergency

What are you doing to tackle the Climate Emergency?

• Share New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub on Facebook Share New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub on Twitter Share New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub on Linkedin Email New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub link

  New Plans and Survey for Hydro Hub

  by Jane Harrad-Roberts, Project Director, Green Expo 2025, 9 months ago
  

  Many people wonder about the apparently derelict sandstone building on the corner of Castle Drive and the Old Dee Bridge between Chester and Handbridge.

  Plans are being developed to return this long-neglected part our heritage back to have a useful place in the future of Chester. Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, or “CHASE” for short is the not-for-profit organisation developing the plans and your views are now being sought in a survey and at meetings in July.

  In 1913, this building was a newly constructed state of the art hydroelectric station, the first of its kind in England to provide... Continue reading

  Many people wonder about the apparently derelict sandstone building on the corner of Castle Drive and the Old Dee Bridge between Chester and Handbridge.

  Plans are being developed to return this long-neglected part our heritage back to have a useful place in the future of Chester. Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, or “CHASE” for short is the not-for-profit organisation developing the plans and your views are now being sought in a survey and at meetings in July.

  In 1913, this building was a newly constructed state of the art hydroelectric station, the first of its kind in England to provide electricity from both tidal and headwater.

  At one point, the station provided 40% of Chester’s electricity requirement until it ceased operation in 1951. The turbines were removed and pumps installed in 1952 to become a water pumping station until 2015. Since then, the building has stood idle and is deteriorating.

  CHASE’s ‘Hydro Hub’ Project aims to give the site a new lease of life with several functions.

  Firstly, as an education centre on career paths for the green economy – good jobs for local people. The Chester area has the potential to lead the UK on decarbonising the economy.

  Secondly, as a potential source of sustainable power and heat for the local area. The biggest energy use in the country is heating homes and businesses, and taking heat from the river is a new technology that could make better use of the building.

  Thirdly, as a unique new visitor centre for the city featuring a rooftop café/restaurant, showcasing the last thousand years of sustainable use on the River Dee, and its potential ahead.

  Chair of CHASE CIC, Chester based Dr Niall Macfadyen said; “We need support to turn the Hydro Building from its unused and rather sorry state to a thriving educational and visitor attraction which generates its own energy and heat.”

  “We would really appreciate your and any of your friends and colleagues’ opinions on the Hydro Hub, so a short survey has been put together by Marketing PRojects to better understand your views. We need as many views as possible and we’d love to hear from you.”

  The link to the short, 2 min. survey is here: https://www.survio.com/survey/d/Hydro-Hub-Concept-Survey-2025 The survey closes at the end of July.

  LtoR: Dr Niall McFadyen, Chair of Cheshire Heritage and Sustainability Enterprises, Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero and Sam Dixon, MP for Chester North and Neston meeting outside the Hydro Building, Castle Drive.

  Some of the latest plans. More are available from https://hydro-hub.uk
• Share Chester’s quality education recognised in global university sustainability impact rankings on Facebook Share Chester’s quality education recognised in global university sustainability impact rankings on Twitter Share Chester’s quality education recognised in global university sustainability impact rankings on Linkedin Email Chester’s quality education recognised in global university sustainability impact rankings link

  Chester’s quality education recognised in global university sustainability impact rankings

  by Felicity Roberts, 10 months ago
  

  The quality of education at the University of Chester has been placed among the top 15% globally, in influential rankings scoring the progress of universities towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

  The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals were recently explored as part of a Faculty of Science, Business and Engineering Research Day.

  For the first time this year, the University was part of the global Times Higher Education’s (THE’s) Impact Rankings, which, in total, ranks 2,526 universities from 130 countries or territories across the goals - described as “the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future... Continue reading

  The quality of education at the University of Chester has been placed among the top 15% globally, in influential rankings scoring the progress of universities towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

  The United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals were recently explored as part of a Faculty of Science, Business and Engineering Research Day.

  For the first time this year, the University was part of the global Times Higher Education’s (THE’s) Impact Rankings, which, in total, ranks 2,526 universities from 130 countries or territories across the goals - described as “the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all”.

  The rankings identify and celebrate universities that “demonstrate comprehensive excellence in contributing to global sustainable development” and highlight their commitment to addressing pressing world challenges.

  The University scored in the top 15% globally for its contribution towards Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4: Quality Education. These results showcase universities ensuring equitable access to education at all levels, from childhood development through secondary education and beyond. The organisers add: “By focusing on sustainable education practices, they equip students with relevant skills and foster effective learning outcomes that are essential for the future workforce.”

  The University was also ranked in the top third for SDG 1 which recognises the universities that are making the greatest impact on alleviating poverty through rigorous poverty research, innovative educational programmes and strategic approaches to helping students in poverty, from offering extensive financial aid to implementing supportive learning environments. In addition, Chester was within the top third for SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals - and in the top half for SDG 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth.

  The submission required the University to provide evidence against specific criteria relating to the SDGs. The University’s submission included: its Sanctuary Scholarships; work with the Cheshire and Warrington Sustainable and Inclusive Growth Commission; the outreach activities of Digital on Tour (DoT); and social inclusion work with the Purpose Coalition.

  Professor Paul Bissell, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovation at the University said: “We are delighted that the University’s impact towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals has been recognised, and in particular to reach such a high position for the goal of Quality Education.

  “This performance reflects our focus at Chester on delivering a sustainable and inclusive higher education experience that is adaptable to the world around us.”

  The United Nations’ SDGs address challenges faced world-wide, including those related to poverty, inequality, climate change, environmental degradation, peace and justice. For further information, please visit: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/

  To find out more about the THE Impact Rankings, visit: https://www.timeshighereducation.com/impactrankings
• Share Urban Green Spaces - Resident Survey. ( for Dissertation) on Facebook Share Urban Green Spaces - Resident Survey. ( for Dissertation) on Twitter Share Urban Green Spaces - Resident Survey. ( for Dissertation) on Linkedin Email Urban Green Spaces - Resident Survey. ( for Dissertation) link

  Urban Green Spaces - Resident Survey. ( for Dissertation)

  by conrad fox , 10 months ago

  Hi, I am a third-year Geography Student at Chester University working towards my dissertation. I’m doing a short survey on urban green spaces 🌳🛝, and your answers will help me to create a meaningful piece of work. This form will only take 5-10 minutes!!

  Your views will help shape future ideas around access to green space, wellbeing, and city planning.

  Please share with anyone local who might be interested 💬

  Thanks so much! 🙏

  I have attached the participant information sheet to the top of the form for you to read if you are curious of what the results will... Continue reading

  Hi, I am a third-year Geography Student at Chester University working towards my dissertation. I’m doing a short survey on urban green spaces 🌳🛝, and your answers will help me to create a meaningful piece of work. This form will only take 5-10 minutes!!

  Your views will help shape future ideas around access to green space, wellbeing, and city planning.

  Please share with anyone local who might be interested 💬

  Thanks so much! 🙏

  I have attached the participant information sheet to the top of the form for you to read if you are curious of what the results will be used for :)

  https://forms.gle/NRzngNzBycL4FDPn9

  
  

  
  
• Share Chester Green Weekend - Prize Draw, Feedback and Pop Ups on Facebook Share Chester Green Weekend - Prize Draw, Feedback and Pop Ups on Twitter Share Chester Green Weekend - Prize Draw, Feedback and Pop Ups on Linkedin Email Chester Green Weekend - Prize Draw, Feedback and Pop Ups link

  Chester Green Weekend - Prize Draw, Feedback and Pop Ups

  by Eco Communities, 10 months ago
  

  Helen Tandy, Orgaiser Chester Green Weekend and Director Eco Communities

  It’s now just over two weeks since Chester Green Weekend, and the team has (mostly!) recovered. Sadly, my laptop didn’t survive Saturday’s rain, so I’m a little behind — but we’re getting there!

  We’ve got some fantastic photos from the weekend thanks to Elle Brotherhood Photography — I promise I’ll get more of these downloaded and shared with you soon. Huge thanks also to Spotlight Socials for doing such a great job on our socials throughout the event.

  And of course, a big thank you to all of you... Continue reading

  Helen Tandy, Orgaiser Chester Green Weekend and Director Eco Communities

  It’s now just over two weeks since Chester Green Weekend, and the team has (mostly!) recovered. Sadly, my laptop didn’t survive Saturday’s rain, so I’m a little behind — but we’re getting there!

  We’ve got some fantastic photos from the weekend thanks to Elle Brotherhood Photography — I promise I’ll get more of these downloaded and shared with you soon. Huge thanks also to Spotlight Socials for doing such a great job on our socials throughout the event.

  And of course, a big thank you to all of you, whether you were a stallholder, workshop leader, volunteer, or visitor. Chester Green Weekend wouldn’t happen without you.

  Weather, Wind & Some Magic Moments

  Chester Green Weekend takes a whole year to plan, but unfortunately, we still can’t control the weather! Briony, Tori from Taste Cheshire and I had some serious discussions about the high winds, but we made the call to open.

  Despite the rain on Saturday, in Dean’s Field we were amazed (and relieved!) that it stopped just in time for the Morris Dancing and the Catwalk curated by Monika from oH (more on the Catwalk and designer in a blog soon) . The fact those could still go ahead was incredible — and they were both absolutely fantastic.

  Also a big thank you to Kevin from Chester Cathedral for all his help over the weekend. It’s such a beautiful space and we were so keen to make it work. That said, we know it was a bit of a logistical nightmare for stalls, and we’re taking notes for the future.

  Looking Ahead

  Planning has already started for Chester Green Weekend 2026, and our fundraising continues.

  We don’t want Chester Green Weekend to be just a once-a-year event. In the run-up to this year’s festival, we held a few pop-ups, and we’re planning more through 2025 to keep the momentum going.

  Topics will include Sustainable Fashion, Sustainable Food, the Circular Economy and more — so keep an eye out for upcoming events.Find out why we're litter picking in Westminster Park on Sunday and how Chester performed in last year’s Big Plastic Count.

  More thanks to Jack from Staff 86 for providing some staff again... Monika is helping me with some socials and so we are keeping the weekend alive...

  Prize Draw, Support and Win

  We’re running a Prize Draw to help support Chester Green Weekend and our events over the rest of 2025. There are some fantastic prizes up for grabs, generously donated by local businesses.

  🎟️ How to Enter:

  • Make a £2 donation per entry via our Stripe link
  • Or enter for free by posting your entry to: 3 Park Drive South, Chester, CH2 3JT

  🎁 Bonus Entry: Complete our Chester Green Weekend Feedback Form and get an additional free entry into the draw.

  📅 Deadline: Entries are open until 31st July.

  Use button below for link to our Linktree to both the Stripe donation entry and event feedback.

  Thanks to Steve from The Townhouse Chester, The Savvy Fox and Deva Fest. Also Chester Race Course and Chester Zoo for the kind donations. CLICK HERE

  
  
• Share Cheshire College Unveils Wellbeing Garden After Inspiring Collaboration with Chester Zoo on Facebook Share Cheshire College Unveils Wellbeing Garden After Inspiring Collaboration with Chester Zoo on Twitter Share Cheshire College Unveils Wellbeing Garden After Inspiring Collaboration with Chester Zoo on Linkedin Email Cheshire College Unveils Wellbeing Garden After Inspiring Collaboration with Chester Zoo link

  Cheshire College Unveils Wellbeing Garden After Inspiring Collaboration with Chester Zoo

  10 months ago
  

  A once unused outdoor space at Cheshire College – South & West’s Ellesmere Port Campus has been transformed into a colourful Wellbeing Garden, thanks to Entry Level students working in partnership with Chester Zoo.

  
  

  The garden is the result of a year-long collaboration that gave students the opportunity to explore nature, sustainability, and wellbeing through a series of engaging, hands-on activities. Inspired by the zoo’s conservation initiatives, students developed their own ideas and brought them to life—creating a peaceful green space for reflection and relaxation on campus.

  The project was officially unveiled on Thursday 22 May, with a special launch... Continue reading

  A once unused outdoor space at Cheshire College – South & West’s Ellesmere Port Campus has been transformed into a colourful Wellbeing Garden, thanks to Entry Level students working in partnership with Chester Zoo.

  
  

  The garden is the result of a year-long collaboration that gave students the opportunity to explore nature, sustainability, and wellbeing through a series of engaging, hands-on activities. Inspired by the zoo’s conservation initiatives, students developed their own ideas and brought them to life—creating a peaceful green space for reflection and relaxation on campus.

  The project was officially unveiled on Thursday 22 May, with a special launch event attended by Principal and CEO Jasbir Dhesi OBE, senior leaders, staff, and members of the wider college community. Guests were guided through the garden by students themselves, who also delivered a presentation reflecting on their journey, achievements, and the personal growth they experienced throughout the project.

  “This collaboration is a shining example of what can be achieved when education, community, and creativity come together,” said Jasbir Dhesi OBE, Principal and CEO of Cheshire College.

  “I’m incredibly proud of our Entry Level students for their passion and ownership of this project. The garden is a beautiful addition to our campus, and a space that will benefit students and staff for years to come.”

  The project forms part of Cheshire College’s wider commitment to inclusive, community-connected learning and supports Chester Zoo’s 'Networks for Nature' initiative, which encourages local conservation action through education and partnership.
• Share Chester Primary Schools brighten up old bike wheels for Chester Green Weekend on Facebook Share Chester Primary Schools brighten up old bike wheels for Chester Green Weekend on Twitter Share Chester Primary Schools brighten up old bike wheels for Chester Green Weekend on Linkedin Email Chester Primary Schools brighten up old bike wheels for Chester Green Weekend link

  Chester Primary Schools brighten up old bike wheels for Chester Green Weekend

  by Stephen Perry, 10 months ago
  

  With old bike wheels donated by BREN bikes, and with guidance and support from Chester Cycling Campaign, 13 local primary schools competed in the Chester Green Weekend Decorated Cycle Wheel competition. The schools were encouraged to decorate with recycled material wherever possible and include a ‘Green’ theme to their submission. Their interpretation was varied but all entries were outstanding. They were displayed on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th in Dean’s Field near the Cathedral.

  First prize went to Cherry Grove Primary.

  Second prize to Dee Point Primary

  And third prize to St Clare’s Catholic Primary.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  With old bike wheels donated by BREN bikes, and with guidance and support from Chester Cycling Campaign, 13 local primary schools competed in the Chester Green Weekend Decorated Cycle Wheel competition. The schools were encouraged to decorate with recycled material wherever possible and include a ‘Green’ theme to their submission. Their interpretation was varied but all entries were outstanding. They were displayed on Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th in Dean’s Field near the Cathedral.

  First prize went to Cherry Grove Primary.

  Second prize to Dee Point Primary

  And third prize to St Clare’s Catholic Primary.

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  

  
  
• Share Chester Cycling Campaign support the Chester Green Weekend on Facebook Share Chester Cycling Campaign support the Chester Green Weekend on Twitter Share Chester Cycling Campaign support the Chester Green Weekend on Linkedin Email Chester Cycling Campaign support the Chester Green Weekend link

  Chester Cycling Campaign support the Chester Green Weekend

  by Stephen Perry, 10 months ago
  

  Chester Cycling Campaign has given their full support to the Chester Green Weekend, 7th and 8th June, as part of the National Big Green Week and by coincidence also coincident with the national Bike Week.

  The Campaign had 4 stalls in Chester Townhall Square including a very popular Smoothie Making Bike

  The Campaign also organised a decorated bike wheel competition with entries from 14 local Primary Schools, with a fantastic result

  
  

  Chester Cycling Campaign has given their full support to the Chester Green Weekend, 7th and 8th June, as part of the National Big Green Week and by coincidence also coincident with the national Bike Week.

  The Campaign had 4 stalls in Chester Townhall Square including a very popular Smoothie Making Bike

  The Campaign also organised a decorated bike wheel competition with entries from 14 local Primary Schools, with a fantastic result

  
  
• Share Chester Schools Cycling Assemblies on Facebook Share Chester Schools Cycling Assemblies on Twitter Share Chester Schools Cycling Assemblies on Linkedin Email Chester Schools Cycling Assemblies link

  Chester Schools Cycling Assemblies

  by Stephen Perry, 10 months ago
  

  Chester Cycling Campaign have given ’Cycling Assemblies’ at 14 Chester schools in the last few weeks, promoting the benefits of Active Travel (cycling, walking and wheeling) and at the same time encouraging school children to support the Chester Green Weekend, taking place across the City Centre over the 7th and 8th June.

  
  

  The key message shared with over 5000 children is the fact ‘Green Chester’ is in their hands. They are the future.

  
  

  
  

  Chester Cycling Campaign have given ’Cycling Assemblies’ at 14 Chester schools in the last few weeks, promoting the benefits of Active Travel (cycling, walking and wheeling) and at the same time encouraging school children to support the Chester Green Weekend, taking place across the City Centre over the 7th and 8th June.

  
  

  The key message shared with over 5000 children is the fact ‘Green Chester’ is in their hands. They are the future.

  
  

  
  
• Share Cheshire College Academy Restaurants lead the way in sustainable hospitality on Facebook Share Cheshire College Academy Restaurants lead the way in sustainable hospitality on Twitter Share Cheshire College Academy Restaurants lead the way in sustainable hospitality on Linkedin Email Cheshire College Academy Restaurants lead the way in sustainable hospitality link

  Cheshire College Academy Restaurants lead the way in sustainable hospitality

  11 months ago
  

  Cheshire College’s Academy Restaurants are at the forefront of sustainable hospitality education, integrating eco-friendly practices across every aspect of their operations. As part of the Hospitality and Catering department’s vision, Academy West is committed to shaping the future of the industry by equipping students with the skills and knowledge to drive the sector towards a greener, more responsible future.

  Hospitality and Catering students at the College create fine dining dishes using locally sourced produce from Cheshire and the Wirral. The restaurant prioritises ethically sourced ingredients, including British meats from regional farms, sustainably caught seafood from UK coastal waters, and fresh... Continue reading

  Cheshire College’s Academy Restaurants are at the forefront of sustainable hospitality education, integrating eco-friendly practices across every aspect of their operations. As part of the Hospitality and Catering department’s vision, Academy West is committed to shaping the future of the industry by equipping students with the skills and knowledge to drive the sector towards a greener, more responsible future.

  Hospitality and Catering students at the College create fine dining dishes using locally sourced produce from Cheshire and the Wirral. The restaurant prioritises ethically sourced ingredients, including British meats from regional farms, sustainably caught seafood from UK coastal waters, and fresh British-grown vegetables.

  These efforts ensure top-quality, fresh ingredients while supporting sustainable supply chains. Academy West’s zero-food waste policy further minimises waste and promotes responsible disposal practices.

  Beyond food sourcing, the restaurant has switched to eco-friendly cleaning products, significantly reduced single-use plastics, and encouraged suppliers to minimise packaging—driving positive change across the supply chain.

  As part of their sustainability education, students recently visited a Welsh hillside farm to gain first hand insight into sustainable food production. This immersive experience helped deepen their understanding of responsible sourcing and highlighted the importance of collaborating with local farmers and suppliers.

  The department is also strengthening its commitment to sustainability by growing fresh herbs on-site, with plans to expand into a full-scale kitchen garden. This initiative ensures the use of the finest quality ingredients and provides students with invaluable, hands-on learning opportunities to enhance their understanding of sustainable food production practices.

  Ruth Szolkowska, Vice Principal for Innovation, Curriculum and Quality commented:

  “Sustainability is a core value that we embed across all areas of learning. The Academy’s commitment to eco-conscious practices ensures that our students leave with the skills and knowledge needed to drive positive change in the hospitality industry.”

  Adam Gaunt-Evans, Lecturer in Catering and Hospitality at Academy West emphasises the broader impact of these initiatives:

  “Sustainability in hospitality is more than just a trend—it’s a necessity. By integrating sustainable practices into our teaching from day one, we are preparing students to lead the industry with responsibility and innovation. Our goal is to inspire them to make environmentally conscious decisions throughout their careers.”

  As Cheshire College continues to expand its sustainability initiatives, it remains dedicated to developing forward-thinking professionals who will drive the sector towards a more responsible and ethical future.

  For further information about Cheshire College visit www.ccsw.ac.uk
• Share Water Quality is in Crisis – Join the Chester Paddle Out Protest This Saturday on Facebook Share Water Quality is in Crisis – Join the Chester Paddle Out Protest This Saturday on Twitter Share Water Quality is in Crisis – Join the Chester Paddle Out Protest This Saturday on Linkedin Email Water Quality is in Crisis – Join the Chester Paddle Out Protest This Saturday link

  Water Quality is in Crisis – Join the Chester Paddle Out Protest This Saturday

  by Eco Communities, 11 months ago
  

  Helen Tandy, Eco Communities & Chester Rep for Surfers Against Sewage

  In 2024, water companies in England recorded 2,487 pollution incidents—more than double the target set by the Environment Agency. This marks the highest number in over a decade, despite repeated promises to clean up their act.

  The water industry pledged to reduce pollution by 40%. Instead, we’ve seen a 30% increase. Our rivers and oceans are in crisis.

  Closer to home, the River Dee is widely used for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and family recreation—but until a river is officially designated as a bathing water... Continue reading

  Helen Tandy, Eco Communities & Chester Rep for Surfers Against Sewage

  In 2024, water companies in England recorded 2,487 pollution incidents—more than double the target set by the Environment Agency. This marks the highest number in over a decade, despite repeated promises to clean up their act.

  The water industry pledged to reduce pollution by 40%. Instead, we’ve seen a 30% increase. Our rivers and oceans are in crisis.

  Closer to home, the River Dee is widely used for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and family recreation—but until a river is officially designated as a bathing water, there is no legal requirement to monitor its safety for human contact.

  That’s why Surfers Against Sewage is organising a nationwide Paddle Out Protest this Saturday—and Chester is taking part.

  Chester local Adam Caris, a regular user of the River Dee, reached out to Surfers Against Sewage to ensure Chester joined the UK-wide protest:

  “As a keen swimmer, canoer and kayaker, I love spending time in and around the Dee and gain massively in terms of my physical and mental health—as do countless others. The river needs as many friends and supporters as it can get. Let’s get out there and show how much we care about clean and healthy environments for local people, nature and future generations.”

  Join the Paddle Out Protest

  📍 Sandy Lane Water Park, Chester
  🗓 Saturday 17th May
  🕝 2:30 PM

  The protest is a peaceful demonstration calling for an end to sewage discharges into UK rivers and seas by 2030.

  Chester’s bid for bathing water status was rejected last year due to insufficient casual bather numbers, despite significant local use.

  Dianne Parish, from Chester Frosty and the Clean Dee Campaign, highlights this issue:

  “Thousands of people come into contact with River Dee water every year—not just swimmers. Rowers, sailors, kayakers, paddleboarders, anglers, triathletes, children, and even carnival float participants all use the river. Yet, current criteria only count non-event swimmers. All river users need protection.”

  With new rules expected soon to allow all river users to be counted—not just swimmers—campaigners are calling on the community to turn out, keep the momentum going, and help make the River Dee a safe, protected space for all. See more CLICK LINK