W15.5
Object
Minerals and Waste Local Plan: Pre-Submission Publication
Representation ID: 99280
Received: 14/12/2022
Respondent: Anglian Water
Legally compliant? Not specified
Sound? No
Duty to co-operate? Not specified
As stated above [regarding paragraphs W15.2 - W15.3] and in previous consultation responses, we have clearly recognised the need for a long-term strategy for our water recycling centres and the foul sewerage network to accommodate further growth as set out in our Water Recycling Long Term Plan. The emerging Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP) will consider the need for further investment at our existing water recycling centres which has been developed in consultation with the Norfolk authorities, The Broads Authority, and the Environment Agency. We would therefore suggest that the supporting text in this paragraph is amended to make this clear and ensure that reference to a masterplan is removed. It is not possible to produce a masterplan for the site as there are so many factors that can change overtime, which impact on our investments and capital programmes - including innovative technology, changes to emerging growth patterns, and changing legislative requirements. These changes include the proposed measures in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill to address nutrient issues. As an environmentally regulated utility, all works Anglian Water undertakes are necessary and have a clear purpose and wider environmental benefit. We regularly update our plans, engaging with our regulators, stakeholders and working in partnership with other stakeholders to provide positive environmental outcomes. The recent nutrient neutrality issue in Norfolk is one such issue that will have implications for future investments at certain WRCs within the River Wensum and The Broads catchments. Therefore, the requirement for a masterplan would put the delivery of strategic investment at Whitlingham WRC at risk.
We have clearly recognised the need for a long-term strategy for our water recycling centres and the foul sewerage network to accommodate further growth as set out in our Water Recycling Long Term Plan. The emerging Drainage and Wastewater Management Plan (DWMP) will consider the need for further investment at our existing water recycling centres which has been developed in consultation with the Norfolk authorities, The Broads Authority, and the Environment Agency. We would therefore suggest that the supporting text in this paragraph is amended to make clear and ensure that reference to a masterplan is removed.