We’re working with United Utilities to improve the natural flood management measures on Stubbins Estate. By working together, we aim to slow the flow of water, improve water quality, and reduce the risk of flooding downstream.
Stubbins Estate is in the Upper Irwell catchment, which lies directly below Holcombe Moor, part of the West Pennine Moors. Our work here is crucial to support the region’s nature, wildlife and people. Working alongside United Utilities, the Slow the Flow project builds upon our knowledge of natural flood management interventions and their effectiveness at reducing water flows both up and downstream.
In total we’ll install 137 dams across moorland, farmland and woodland. Each type of dam is designed to either hold back or slow the flow of water. By enhancing the water storage capabilities of the land, limiting run off or slowing the flow of water, we aim to reduce the risk of flooding whilst at the same time maintaining and improving water quality.
This work is part of our wider land and water management practices which aim to mitigate climate change, reduce the risk of flooding, support farming, and improve habitats and biodiversity across moorland, farmland and woodland areas.
May 2026
We’ve begun to install the first of the storm dams across farmland. These types of dams, which are made up of horizontal wooden poles, are permeable allowing run off in normal conditions but restricting flow during high rainfall events.
We will adopt an ongoing monitoring strategy, utilising a number of different methods of data capture through the use of drones, fixed point photography, flow monitors, storm harvester (AI analytics for wastewater utilities), university experts and timelapse footage. These techniques will help us understand the relationship between our uplands, natural flood management, and our drainage areas, as well as capturing the wider benefits.
The important work to slow the flow of water on Stubbins Estate began in March 2026. The project is funded by United Utilities’ Advanced WINEP (Water Industry National Environment Programme), part of which focuses on storm overflow improvements and environmental enhancement. Throughout the project both the National Trust and United Utilities will be working with key stakeholders including the Environment Agency, Natural England, University of Liverpool, University of Manchester, commoners, local authorities and other interest groups.
Everyone needs nature and outdoor space, now more than ever, and as a charity we rely heavily on your support and generosity. Your support plays a vital role in allowing us to protect Holcombe Moor and Stubbins Estate’s natural landscape and rich wildlife for everyone to enjoy.
United Utilities is responsible for water and wastewater services in the North West of England.
Environmental Agency is a public body sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs, working to create better places for people and wildlife, and support sustainable development.
Natural England is the government’s adviser for the natural environment in England. They help to protect and restore our natural world.
The University of Manchester is a public research university located in Manchester, England.
Rossendale Borough Council is the local authority for the Rossendale district in East Lancashire, providing district-level services such as waste collection, planning, and environmental health.
The University of Liverpool are a dynamic institution of academic excellence and innovation.
Discover the work we've been doing to restore, conserve and manage Holcombe Moor’s precious landscape.
Find out how the Countryside Team of rangers and volunteers work hard to restore and conserve Holcombe Moor. Learn more about the vital work carried out to increase biodiversity, improve habitats for wildlife, help capture carbon, reduce peat erosion and minimise the risk of flooding.
Escape the crowds with a walk on Holcombe Moor and Stubbins Estate.
Whether you enjoy walking, running, bird watching, cycling or horse riding, enjoy spectacular views, woodland, riverside rambling and heritage.
Explore a number of interesting historic sites dotted about the moors, that offer up tales of bravery, determination and even murder.
