We have heard today from the Environment Agency that the Abstraction License has been signed off today.
The supply of water is limited, and it’s the EA’s responsibility to make sure that it’s managed and used effectively. They do this through a licensing system, to control the level of abstraction to protect both water supplies and the environment.
Without licences, persistent over-abstraction or works that obstruct or impede the flow of water in a watercourse could lead to:
- shortages in water supply
- increased river pollution by reducing dilution of pollutants
- damage to fisheries and wildlife habitats
- the loss of rivers for recreation and enjoyment