Policy Threads

Water Abstraction Licensing Strategies

The Environment Agency, under Defra's oversight, is developing a strategic approach to water abstraction licensing through the National Framework for Water Resources 2025. The policy addresses concerns that current regulation is reactive rather than evidence-based, and aims to establish comprehensive, predictable rules for managing water abstraction rights across all users including farms and water companies.

8 May 2026 | Consultation outcome Environment Agency linked

Appendix 1: Changes to the Environmental Destination for Water Resources planning guidance — outcome published

In response to: Water resources planning guideline update

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8 May 2026 | Consultation outcome Environment Agency linked

Water resources planning guideline: consultation response summary — outcome published

In response to: Water resources planning guideline update

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16 Feb 2026 | Consultation (closed) Environment Agency linked

Reserving water abstraction rights — consultation closed

We want your feedback on the Environment Agency’s proposed approach to reserving water abstraction rights.

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24 Nov 2025 | Consultation (closed) Environment Agency linked

Reserving water abstraction rights — consultation opened

We want your feedback on the Environment Agency’s proposed approach to reserving water abstraction rights.

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK