Nutrient stripping requirement areas mapped

Defra has formally designated which catchments are defined as sensitive under the Water Industry Act in terms of being in an unfavourable condition as a result of phosphorus or nitrogen pollution in water.

In these catchments (click on map to view ) water companies have a duty to ensure wastewater treatment works serving a population equivalent over 2,000 meet specified nutrient removal standards by 1 April 2030.

Defra said any exemptions will be confirmed by 1 April 2024.