Water Neutrality Poured Into The Local Planning Mix

While the south of the Chichester district is getting to grips with Nitrate Neutrality, we look at how the water-related constraint is developing now demonstration of Water Neutrality is required for planning applications in the north of the District.

The Position Statement from Natural England September 2021 (using information collected by Natural England) shows that water abstraction for drinking water supplies is having a negative impact on the wildlife sites in the Arun Valley.  Therefore they advised that any new development that takes place must not add to this negative impact. Planning proposals for development will need to demonstrate they can be 'water neutral'.

“For every new development, total water use after the development must be equal to or less than the total water-use in the region before the new development."

Water neutrality is defined as development that does not increase the rate of water abstraction for drinking water supplies above existing levels. It has an impact on the Local Plan, Neighbourhood Plans and Development Management. Interesting times ahead balancing water neutrality requirements alongside the government-imposed 'levelling up' housing targets. The focus now is how we can build better through "efficiency by design" for water sustainability.

Please feel free to contact our team for the most recent guidance. We can help clarify implications this may have, advise on water neutrality statements and other action to be taken for any local planning and development projects.