Entec Study Points to Water Neutrality in Thames Gateway

A study by Entec into the feasibility of water neutrality has shown that the Thames Gateway could use the same amount of water in 2016 as it does now, providing that an ambitious water demand management programme is implemented as part of development in the area.

The study, the first of its kind in the world, was commissioned by the Environment Agency, Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) and Defra and is part of the Thames Gateway Delivery Plan, which was published by the Prime Minister and Housing Minister Yvette Cooper at the Thames Gateway Forum 2007. The plan sets out for the first time how cross-Government investment of more than £9 billion will be spent to deliver Europe's largest regeneration project.

Entec developed a scenario-based approach to modelling water demand in the Thames Gateway, which explored the feasibility of water neutrality by making new developments more water efficient, retro-fitting existing homes and other buildings with more efficient fixtures and fittings, increasing domestic metering and introducing innovative tariffs for water use which encourage households to use water more efficiently. The study found that achieving water neutrality within the Thames Gateway by 2016 is technically feasible, but would be a challenging target for policymakers, consumers and those involved in delivery.

At the launch of the report, Chief Executive for the Environment Agency Barbara Young said: “Water neutrality in the Thames Gateway by 2016 will be a challenging goal for water companies, government and consumers – but this study shows that it can be done. It is essential that we all do our utmost to use water much more efficiently and protect the environment.”

Notes

• For this study it was considered that water neutrality would be achieved “if the total water used after new development is equal to or less than total water use in the Thames Gateway before the development.”
• Entec produced a technical report for the study. The report, together with a survey of residents and a summary report can be found on the Environment Agency website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk
• For more information on the Thames Gateway please visit www.thamesgateway.gov.uk

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