HC Deb 23 February 1998 vol 307 cc18-9W
Mrs. Brinton

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what guidelines the Government issues concerning the use of water-saving devices in delivering timed and measured supplies of water to gardens. [30593]

Angela Eagle

The Government have not produced such guidelines. However, water companies are under a duty to promote the efficient use of water by their customers, and this includes the external use of water. Most companies have produced information for their customers about the efficient use of water in gardens. Many companies require customers who use garden watering devices delivering a high volume of water to be metered.

Mrs. Brinton

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions (1) what discussions he has had with water companies and their representatives concerning the availability of water resources in determining future housing need; [30594]

  1. (2) what discussions have taken place between his Department and local authority planning officers concerning the consideration of water resources in local planning issues; [30595]
  2. (3) how his Department differentiates between areas within the United Kingdom which have adequate water resources and those areas with least water resources in determining housing need. [30596]

Angela Eagle

I discussed the water resource position with the Water Services Association in December. The water companies have the duty to maintain and develop water supplies to meet the needs of their areas. In accordance with guidelines issued last August by the Environment Agency, all water companies are currently preparing water resource plans to maintain a balance between demand and supply over the next 25 years. These plans will have to address projected demands such as housing need and will need to be agreed with the Environment Agency, which has the duty to secure the proper use of water resources in England and Wales.

Local Authorities consult with infrastructure providers, such as water supply companies, when planning new developments and preparing their development plans. Planning Policy Guidance Note 12 (PPG12) draws attention to the need for this consultation to take place. This issue will be considered further in the proposals for revision to PPG12 currently being prepared.