WildFish calls for transparency over Test and Itchen abstraction plan

WildFish has called for complete transparency over any intention to change the plan to curtail abstraction on the chalk rivers Test and Itchen by 2027.

The fish conservation charity has reported that it has obtained a communication plan – through a Freedom of Information request to the Environment Agency – which sets out how Southern Water and the EA intend to “communicate the renegotiation of the Section 20” deadline.

This refers to a legally binding agreement made in 2018 under Section 20 of the Water Resources Act 1991 stipulating that Southern Water must use all best endeavours to find an alternative water resource by 2027, so that it no longer relies on drought permits on the Test and Itchen.

WildFish reported that the communications plan suggested the deadline will need to be extended until Southern’s preferred alternative water resource scheme – recycling water from Budds Farm wastewater works to augment Havant Thicket supplies – is ready.

The group said: "The recently released documents reveal that the intention is to conclude the negotiations before the public is informed. This is completely unacceptable. The Section 20 Agreement was produced and consulted on as part of a Public Inquiry so there should be complete transparency around any alterations that are under consideration. Interested parties and the public must be informed and consulted on any amendments and their specific wording before the Agreement is concluded.”