Water Resources Management Plan
We’re in the process of developing our Water Resources Management Plan. This will set out how we intend to ensure a secure water supply for the North West over the next 25-year planning period from 2025 to 2050 and beyond.
We are committed to working with a diverse range of stakeholders who can challenge and contribute ideas as the plan is developed.
The plan assesses projected water supply and demand; and considers supply-side options (to increase the amount of water available to United Utilities) and demand-side options (to reduce the amount of water that is required).
We already have some of our own supply and demand options but need to engage with third-party organisations and individuals to understand all opportunities available. This will allow us to assess what viable alternatives are available and to plan how we can best secure the future of the North West’s water resources.
Supply-side and demand-side options
We are looking to explore and consider both supply-side and demand-side options:
- Supply options could include any opportunities to increase the amount of water available to United Utilities. This could include opportunities to sell United Utilities surplus water, for example if an individual or an organisation has a licence to withdraw water from a source but is not using it. It could also include opportunities for bulk water imports to the United Utilities network from areas with a water surplus.
- Demand options could include ways to reduce the amount of water that is required. For example, this could mean water efficiency schemes, opportunities for metering and leakage detection/reduction.
Who do we want to hear from?
We want to hear from a range of organisations and individuals who think they may have commercial opportunities to sell surplus water to United Utilities, or to help improve efficiency of water usage. For supply options, we have identified the following groups of people and organisations that we think might have mutually beneficial opportunities to work with us:
- Global companies
- SMEs (Small to Medium Enterprise)
- Trusts
- The agricultural sector
- Authorities
- The hospitality sector
This list is not exhaustive and we’re also keen to hear from any other organisations or individuals considering applying to the Environment Agency for a licence to withdraw water (abstraction licence).
For demand options, we’d like to engage with companies about water efficiency opportunities, potential technological solutions or other opportunities to save United Utilities water.
Did you miss our webinar?
We held a webinar event on Tuesday 14 September 2021 where our team provided more information about the options we are currently exploring and the process for submitting your own.
If you weren’t able to join you can view a recording of the
webinar here.
Submit your options
If you know of a supply or demand side option then please let us know. You can submit your options for consideration by completing this feedback form before 15th October 2021.
If you aren’t able to contribute your ideas before the deadline don’t worry. We’re still keen to hear from you.
Want to know more about our Water Resources Management Plan?
You can find out more by visiting our website or reading our summary document.
Continue the discussion
Over the next few months we will be engaging with stakeholders across the North West. We will be using consultations pages to discuss key topics within forums.