Bangor man scoops annual award for national leadership innovation

A BANGOR man has received a major leadership award.

Paddy Brow has been awarded the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM) President’s Award for Innovation 2025.

Mr Brow, who is head of the Living With Water programme (LWWP) at NI Water, has been recognised for his exemplary leadership at a distinguished national awards ceremony in London.

This prestigious award is given to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional creativity and practical innovation in tackling the significant challenges facing water and environmental management today.

Mr Brow has been celebrated for his outstanding contribution in spearheading the Living With Water programme which has become a model of collaborative and sustainable planning within the sector.

The LWWP was established to bring together key stakeholders to develop a catchment-based, sustainable drainage and wastewater management plan for Greater Belfast, in which over one third of the population live.

The key objectives of the plan are to reduce flood risk, enhance water quality in Belfast Lough, and pave the way for future economic growth.

By fostering close collaboration between organisations such as the Department for Infrastructure, Utility Regulator, DAERA, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, and Belfast City Council, the programme succeeded in developing  a comprehensive plan that was endorsed by the Northern Ireland Executive and published in 2021, with delivery commencing shortly after.

Whilst delivery of the major projects had to be paused in 2024, many of the smaller elements continue to be progressed at a pace in line with the available funding.

Speaking about his award win Mr Brow said: “Winning this award is an incredible honour for our entire team. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and passion we’ve poured into our work. This achievement inspires us to continue striving to achieve the plan objectives over the  years ahead.”

Tzvetelina Bogoina, NI Water director of infrastructure, congratulated Mr Brow on his award.

“All of us at NI Water send hearty congratulations to Paddy and all those involved in the Living With Water programme for this well-deserved honour, reflecting the tireless efforts made to secure a safer, greener, and more prosperous future.

“Paddy’s approach has not only benefited Belfast but has also set a benchmark for similar initiatives throughout the UK and Europe. The recognition from CIWEM highlights the wider impact of the Living With Water Programme, showcasing how innovative thinking and partnership working can help address environmental challenges faced by communities on a national and international scale.”