Guidance: Abstraction outside the authorised period for filling water storage reservoirs: RPS 382
Summary
The Environment Agency has updated Regulatory Position Statement (RPS) 382 on abstraction outside the authorised period for filling existing water storage reservoirs. The clarification confirms that licence holders must still comply with any stated abstraction rate, and that water abstracted under the RPS will not count towards the annual authorised volume in the licence.
Why it matters
Surveyors involved in rural, commercial or development assets with water storage infrastructure may need to understand the licensing position when assessing operational compliance or advising clients. The update also reinforces that the RPS does not remove the underlying legal requirement for an abstraction licence where one is required.
Key points
- RPS 382 concerns abstraction outside the authorised period for filling existing water storage reservoirs.
- Licence holders must comply with any stated abstraction rate in the licence.
- Water abstracted under the RPS will not count towards the annual authorised volume.
- The Environment Agency says it will not normally take enforcement action if the RPS conditions are met.
- The RPS does not change other legal requirements, including the need for an abstraction licence where applicable.
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