Sutton and East Surrey Water Water Resources Management Plan: SEA Environmental Report. FINAL March 2010

Transcription

1 Water Resources Management Plan: SEA Environmental Report FINAL March 2010

2 Notice This document has been produced by ATKINS for SESW solely for the purpose of the Strategic Environmental Assessment for the PR09 Water Resources Management Plan. It may not be used by any person for any other purpose other than that specified without the express written permission of ATKINS. Any liability arising out of use by a third party of this document for purposes not wholly connected with the above shall be the responsibility of that party who shall indemnify ATKINS against all claims costs damages and losses arising out of such use. Document History JOB NUMBER: DOCUMENT REF: Revision 1 Purpose and Description Draft for SESW and EA comment Originated Checked Reviewed Authorised Date NS ED CW JL 24/4/08 2 Public Consultation NS ED CW JL 6/5/08 3 Final NS/DH ED CW JL 12/3/2010 i

3 Contents 1 Introduction Background The Sutton and East Surrey Water Supply Area Definiton of the Study Area The Need for Strategic Environmental Assessment Water Resources Management Plans The SEA Process Linking the SEA with the Water Resources Management Plan Scoping Report Consultation Environmental Report Consultation Appropriate Assessment 21 2 Current and Future Resources in the Sutton and East Surrey Water Supply Area Sources of Supply Recent Water Resource Developments The Supply-Demand Balance 24 3 SEA Methodology Approach to the SEA and Prediction Methodology 27 4 Developing the SEA Framework Review of Relevant Plans and Programmes SEA Baseline Key Environmental Issues The SEA Framework 66 5 Assessment of Environmental Effects of Alternatives Introduction Alternative Strategic Options Assessment of Options Summary of Environmental Effects of Strategic Options 83 6 Environmental Effects of the Preferred Strategy Selection of the Preferred Strategy 89 7 Mitigation Introduction Mitigation Measures Considered Integral to Options Specific Mitigation Measures for Preferred Option 96 8 Implementation and Monitoring 97 9 Conclusion 100 ii

4 10 References Appendices 103 Appendix A. Appendix B. Appendix C. Appendix D. Appendix E. Appendix F. Appendix G. Appendix H. Appendix I. Review of Plans, Programmes and Policies List of Sites Designated for Nature Conservation List of Scheduled Ancient Monuments Environmental Quality Standards Environmental Constraints Maps Environmental Assessment of Options Scoping Report Consultation Environmental Report Consultation Discounted Options iii

5 List of Figures Figure 1 Statutory process for the development of Water Resources Management Plans 16 Figure 2 Relationship between SEA tasks 18 Figure 3 Relationship between the Water Resources Management Plan and SEA 20 List of Tables Table 1.1 Assessment of WRMP strategic resource development options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term x Table 1.2 Assessment of WRMP strategic demand management options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term xi Table 3.1 Categorisation of significance of effects 28 Table 4.1 List of plans, policies and programmes reviewed. 31 Table 4.2 Estimated annual household growth within SESW supply area Table 4.3 Population estimates 37 Table 4.4 Average household occupancy rates 37 Table 4.5 Population health by Local Authority areas 38 Table 4.6 Cyprinid fisheries designated under the Freshwater Fisheries Directive 43 Table 4.7 Water Framework Directive risk assessment categories for different waterbody types 46 Table 4.8 Water resource availability categories defined within CAMS documents 49 Table 4.9 Surface water resource availability status in the Medway catchment 50 Table 4.10 Groundwater resource availability status in the Medway catchment 50 Table 4.11 Integrated surface and ground water resource availability status in the Mole catchment 52 Table 4.12 Integrated surface and ground water resource availability status in the London catchment 53 Table 4.13 Summary of areas and features of cultural, historic or archaeological importance within Local Authority areas 57 Table 4.14 SEA objectives, indicators and targets 67 Table 5.1 Constrained resource development and demand management options included with the SESW Final WRMP 72 Table 5.2 Criteria for assessment 79 Table 5.3 Assessment of WRMP strategic resource development options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term 87 Table 5.4 Assessment of WRMP strategic demand management options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term 88 Table 6.1 Assessment of preferred strategy 91 Table 8.1 Monitoring Plan 98 iv

6 Glossary of Terms Term AISC ALC AMP AONB ARU BAP CAMS DO EIA ER EU GAC GQA GWMU HOF JCA Ml NVZ ODPM ONS OS PPG PR Meaning / Definition Average Incremental Social Cost Agricultural Land Classification Asset Management Period Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Aquifer Resource Unit Biodiversity Action Plan Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy Deployable Output Environmental Impact Assessment Environmental Report European Union Granular Activated Carbon (Adsorber) General Quality Assessment Groundwater Management Unit Hands off Flow Joint Character Area Megalitre (1 million litres) Nitrate Vulnerable Zone Office of the Deputy Prime Minister Office for National Statistics Ordnance Survey Pollution Prevention Guidelines Periodic Review PR04 Periodic Review 2004 PR09 Periodic Review 2009 PS SAC SAM SEA Pumping Station Special Area of Conservation Scheduled Ancient Monument Strategic Environmental Assessment v

7 Term SESW SNCI SPA SPZ SSSI UKCIP WRMU WRMP WRZ WTW WWTW Meaning / Definition Sutton and East Surrey Water Site of Nature Conservation Interest Special Protection Area Source Protection Zone Site of Special Scientific Interest United Kingdom Climate Impacts Programme Water Resource Management Unit Water Resources Management Plan Water Resource Zone Water Treatment Works Waste Water Treatment Works vi

8 Non-Technical Summary Introduction This Environmental Report (ER) on Sutton and East Surrey Water s Final PR09 Water Resources Management Plan (WRMP) has been prepared to fulfil the requirements of the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive. The SEA Directive came into force in the UK on 20 July 2004 through the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 and requires an environmental assessment of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment. The WRMP is considered to be a water management plan within the terms of the SEA Directive and will set the framework for future development. The Company has therefore carried out an SEA to accompany the WRMP. This Final ER documenting the findings of the SEA has been prepared alongside the Final WRMP. Both documents were published by the Company on 12 th March The Final Water Resources Management Plan The WRMP sets out how Sutton and East Surrey Water intends to provide sufficient water supplies to meet the anticipated demands from its customers, whilst protecting the environment, over the planning period from 2007/08 to 2034/35. The WRMP includes a detailed assessment of all aspects of the supply demand balance over the planning period, including future demand growth, reassessment of Company source yields, and assessment of future risks and uncertainties in the supply demand balance including the effects of climate change. The WRMP sets out the Company s least cost development plan over the planning period, including a detailed option appraisal of resource side and demand management options to maintain the supply demand balance. The overriding objective of the WRMP is to balance supply and demand for water at least economic cost and with least environmental and social effect. Sutton and East Surrey Water supply an area of 834km 2 with a current population of approximately 647,000 customers and 274,000 properties (2007/08). As well as covering a proportion of Surrey, the supply area extends into parts of Kent, West Sussex and Greater London. The supply area covers a large part of the North Downs and encompasses two main river catchments; the Mole and the Eden. The Company has a current deficit in resources during the dry year peak period which is driving the need for new water resource developments during the planning period as detailed within the Company s Final WRMP. SESW has adopted a twin track approach to water resource planning, by reducing demand and by developing new supplies. All potential resource development and demand management options available to the Company to maintain the supply demand balance have been considered within the Final WRMP as follows: Option Option 1.1 Option 1.2 Option 2.1 Option 2.2 Option 2.3 Description Increase peak week capacity of Reservoir A from 45Ml/d to 70Ml/d. Raise Reservoir A embankment. 9.2Ml/d increase in average yield. Scheme GW3 (Mole Valley Chalk). 0.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW4 (Lower Greensand). 1.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW5 (Lower Greensand). 0.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. vii

9 Option 2.4 Option 3.2 Option 3.3 Scheme GW6 (Lower Greensand). 1.4Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW8 (North Downs Chalk: ASR). 5Ml/d increase in peak yield. Scheme GW9 (Lower Greensand ASR). 5Ml/d increase in peak yield. Option 4.1 Bulk Supply from the Thames Water strategic resource development in Ml/d. Option 5.1 Enhanced metering to achieve 90% meter penetration in Option 5.2 Enhanced metering to achieve 90% meter penetration by Option 6.1 Option 6.2 Option 6.3 Option 6.4 Option 6.5 Option 6.6 Option 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 Schools retrofit programme to install a range of water efficiency measures in schools across the Company supply area. Elderly care home retrofit programme to install water efficiency devices within elderly case homes across the Company supply area. A general non-household programme, to raise awareness of water efficiency amongst targeted non household customers, and installation of water efficiency devices. Targeted Company retrofit of existing households with water saving devices within a targeted group of existing households. Targeted horticultural management plan to provide advice to householders on how water efficient gardening practices and garden design can reduce water consumption. Targeted DIY retrofit of existing households through issue of Water Efficiency Packs to participating households. Three proposals for leakage reduction have been considered for a 1Ml/d, 2Ml/d and 4Ml/d reduction below the current level of leakage. The preferred strategy identified within the Company s Final WRMP is to implement Option 1.1 in 2012 to increase the peak output from Reservoir A to 70Ml/d, Option 5.1 to increase household metering to 90% of all household customers by 2025, Option 6.1 to install water efficient devices in schools and to reduce leakage by around 3.5Ml/d to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and The Company s preferred strategy will maintain the supply demand balance within the supply area to 2034/35. Scoping Consultation In order to provide a focus for consultation, a SEA Scoping Report was prepared and sent to the following statutory consultees in September 2007: Natural England; The Environment Agency; and English Heritage. The Scoping Report included the following information which the consultees were invited to comment upon: A list of other plans and programmes and their environmental protection objectives which are relevant to the WRMP; viii

10 A summary of relevant baseline information for the study area; A list of the key environmental issues (opportunities and constraints) identified within the WRMP study area; and A draft list of environmental objectives for the plan area against which the options considered for the WRMP were assessed. A summary of the comments received at the scoping stage and how they have been addressed is given in Appendix G. Environmental Report Consultation A Draft Environmental Report on the Company s Draft WRMP was issued to the statutory consultees for comment n May 2008, setting out the work undertaken during the initial stages of the SEA process and the environmental effects of the Company s preferred development plan over the planning period. In May 2008 the Draft ER was also placed on the Company s website alongside the Draft WRMP, as part of the required public consultation process for the WRMP which ran from 6 th May 2008 to 1 st August In February 2009, the Company issued a Statement of Response to Public Consultation on its Draft WRMP setting out what changes would be made to the Draft WRMP to address the representations. All comments relating to the Environmental report are summarised in Appendix H and have been addressed within the Final ER. Changes incorporated in the Final ER are also described in the SEA Environmental Statement which accompanies this Report. Assessment of Effects The key environmental issues relevant to the SEA have been translated into a series of environmental objectives against which each of the options listed above has been assessed. Tables 1.1 and 1.2 provide an overview of the severity or magnitude of effects expected to arise as a result of the implementation of each option. Effects include those arising from both construction and operation and are considered in the short term and medium to long term. Effects are identified as either negative or positive. Where it is considered that there will be no effect against an objective, this is described as neutral. Yellow, orange and red shaded cells indicate negative effects of increasing strength whereas light green, dark green and blue cells indicate positive effects of increasing strength. Cells shaded in grey indicate a neutral effect. The study area is limited to the SESW water supply area, with an extension to cover the area directly affected by the Thames bulk supply option between Merton and Hackbridge. ix

11 Table 1.1 Assessment of WRMP strategic resource development options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term SEA Objective Option 1.1 Increase capacity of Reservoir A Option 1.2 Raise Reservoir A Option 2.1 Scheme GW3 Option 2.2 Scheme GW4 Option 2.3 Scheme GW5 Option 2.4 Scheme GW6 Option 3.1 Scheme GW7 Option 3.2 Scheme GW8 Option 3.3 Scheme GW9 Option 4.1 Bulk supply from Thames Water S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive x

12 Table 1.2 Assessment of WRMP strategic demand management options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term SEA Objective Option 5.1: EM1 Option 5.2: EM2 Option 6.1: Schools Option 6.2: Care Homes Option 6.3: Non House - holds Option 6.4: Targeted House - holds Option 6.5: Horticultural advice Option 6.6: DIY Households Option 7.1: Reduce Leakage by 1Ml/d Option 7.2: Reduce Leakage by 2Ml/d Option 7.3: Reduce Leakage by 4Ml/d S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive xi

13 Preferred Strategy The Company s Final WRMP, which has included a detailed appraisal of the costs and benefits of each option, including environmental and social costs, demonstrates that the preferred least cost strategy is to increase the output from Reservoir A WTW in 2012 (Option 1.1), alongside enhanced household metering (Option 5.1), the schools efficiency programme (Option 6.1), and a longer term leakage reduction programme to reduce leakage by around 3.5Ml/d to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and The Company s preferred development plan would maintain the supply demand balance throughout the planning period from 2007/08 to 2034/35. Reservoir A Option 1.1 would involve increasing the capacity of the Water Treatment Works at Reservoir A from 45Ml/d to the licensed peak abstraction volume of 70Ml/d, providing a 25Ml/d increase in peak output. Utilisation of the full peak licence for Reservoir A will provide substantial benefits to the Company and its customers during drought periods including: Immediate improvement to the resilience of the Company s resources during drought periods. The supply demand balance will be maintained throughout the planning period, avoiding the need for other more expensive and environmentally damaging resource development; More efficient use of raw water that is already stored and available for use. The increase in output and network capacity will allow more flexibility and greater resting/conjunctive use of groundwater sources, substantially reducing the risk of supply side failure and the need for emergency measures. The new daily peak licence of 70Ml/d for Reservoir A was granted by the EA in May 2007, recognising the important role that the reservoir can play in meeting peak demand and providing long term security of supply for the Company s customers. The scheme will allow more effective use of water stored within the reservoir to meet peak demand and would not alter the existing abstraction limits from the River Eden. Whilst the strategic bulk supply from the Thames Water strategic resource development has been identified as marginally environmentally favourable to Option 1.1, due to the potential environmental benefits arising from the strategic use of water resources across the region, the transfer option would not be available to SESW until at least 2026 which is too late to meet the forecast growth in demand within the supply area. Domestic metering The final strategy also includes the Company s proposed metering programme to achieve 90% meter penetration by 2025 (Option 5.1 Enhanced Metering 1). The Company plans to install 32,000 meters during the period , similar to the existing rate of metering for It is expected that the metering programme to 2015 will be achieved through a combination of metering of optants and metering on change of occupancy. Beyond 2015, the Company proposes to accelerate its metering programme to achieve full metering (90% penetration) by 2025 using a combination of metering on change of occupancy, compulsory metering, and free meter optants. The proposal to move towards universal metering is strongly supported by the Company s customers and the Environment Agency. Leakage The Company s most significant water saving initiative is its positive approach to leakage management. The Company remains the only company in the UK water industry to operate a performance contract where its leak detection contractor is paid solely on measured reductions in night flow rates. The Company s leakage level is one of the lowest in England and Wales. The xii

14 Company s current level of leakage is 24.5Ml/d which is below the Company s Sustainable Economic Level of Leakage, which has been estimated as 27.3Ml/d as presented in the Final WRMP. The Final WRMP has shown that short term leakage reductions are not currently economic when compared to other resource side and demand management options. The Company s leakage strategy for the planning period is to maintain leakage at the current level of 24.5Ml/d to Subject to funding in the longer term the Company then intends to reduce leakage to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and 2035, representing an overall reduction of approximately 3.5Ml/d. Water Efficiency Since completion of the Draft WRMP the Company has completed a detailed review of additional water efficiency options, which are included within the Final WRMP alongside other demand management and supply side options. This work has included a review of the Waterwise final report, Evidence base for Large-Scale Water Efficiency, published in October As a result of the additional work on water efficiency options the Company has included the schools water efficiency retro-fit programme (Option 6.1) within the final planning strategy. The schools programme will include advice and assistance in installing water efficient devices and fittings, and/or replacing sanitary ware with new modern water efficient equivalents. The programme will provide the Company with an opportunity to educate the schools pupils and staff about a whole range of sustainability matters. Assessment of Preferred Strategy and Conclusions The full assessment of the preferred strategy is provided by Table 6.1 in Section 6. Negative environmental effects identified by the assessment will mostly be short term relating to the construction phase for Option 1.1. SEA is primarily concerned with the medium to long term effects as it is considered that short term effects relating to construction will be temporary and will be mitigated to acceptable levels. Mitigation measures have been proposed for many of the short term effects and these are presented in Section 7. There is potential for the implementation of the demand management options (Options 5.1 for domestic metering and Option 6.1 for the schools water efficiency programme) to have a slight positive effect on water resources in terms of quality and quantity and this may result in positive effects on the aquatic environment in the long term. A description of the measures for monitoring the environmental effects of implementing the proposed strategy is outlined in Section 8. The Company will review and update the SEA alongside future updates of the Water Resources Management Plan, taking account of any future changes to the Company s preferred water resources strategy. Future revisions of the SEA will include an update of the baseline environmental assessment for the Company area and, where necessary, modifications to the monitoring plan for the next review period. It is considered highly unlikely that the preferred strategy will adversely affect the integrity of a European site as defined by the Habitats and Birds Directives. It is also considered unlikely that the proposed plan will have cumulative negative effects on the baseline environment with any other plans or programmes. It is considered that the preferred strategy of Sutton and East Surrey Water s Final Water Resources Management Plan is supported by the findings of the SEA. xiii

15 1 INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND This Environmental Report (ER) on Sutton and East Surrey Water s Final PR09 Water Resources Management Plan (WRMP) has been prepared to fulfil the requirements of the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive. The SEA Directive came into force in the UK on 20 July 2004 through the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 and requires an environmental assessment of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment. The WRMP is considered to be a water management plan within the terms of the SEA Directive and will set the framework for future development. The Company has therefore carried out an SEA to accompany the WRMP This Final ER documenting the findings of the SEA has been prepared alongside the Final WRMP. Both documents were published by the Company on 28th February The WRMP sets out how Sutton and East Surrey Water intends to provide sufficient water supplies to meet the anticipated demands from its customers, whilst protecting the environment, over the planning period from 2007/08 to 2034/35. The WRMP includes a detailed assessment of all aspects of the supply demand balance over the planning period, including future demand growth, reassessment of Company source yields, and assessment of future risks and uncertainties in the supply demand balance including the effects of climate change. The WRMP sets out the Company s least cost development plan over the planning period, including a detailed option appraisal of resource side and demand management options to maintain the supply demand balance. The overriding objective of the WRMP is to balance supply and demand for water at least economic cost and with least environmental and social effect Sutton and East Surrey Water supply an area of 834km2 with a current population of approximately 647,000 customers and 274,000 properties (2007/08). As well as covering a proportion of Surrey, the supply area extends into parts of Kent, West Sussex and Greater London. The supply area covers a large part of the North Downs and encompasses two main river catchments; the Mole and the Eden The Company has a current deficit in resources during the dry year peak period which is driving the need for new water resource developments during the planning period as detailed within the Company s Final WRMP. 1.2 THE SUTTON AND EAST SURREY WATER SUPPLY AREA The SESW supply area includes the Sutton Water Resource Zone (WRZ) and the East Surrey WRZ. Together these WRZs cover an area of 834km2. The Company has a total population of approximately 647,000 customers and 274,000 properties (2007/08). As well as covering a proportion of Surrey, the supply area extends into parts of Kent, West Sussex and Greater London. The Sutton WRZ is smaller in area than the East Surrey WRZ. Population is almost evenly divided between the two zones with a significantly higher population density in the Sutton WRZ. The East Surrey WRZ is more rural with scattered urban settlements and larger homes The supply area covers a large part of the North Downs and encompasses two main river catchments; the Mole and the Eden. The Eden forms part of the larger Medway catchment. The supply area also encompasses parts of the smaller catchments of the River Wandle, Beverly Brook and River Hogsmill. 14

16 1.3 DEFINITON OF THE STUDY AREA The study area is limited to the SESW water supply area, with an extension to cover the area directly affected by the Thames bulk supply option between Merton and Hackbridge (Option 4.1). Merton is situated approximately 5 miles to the north of the Sutton water resource zone. 1.4 THE NEED FOR STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT SEA is a process for assessing the effects of a plan or programme on the environment. The environment includes a wide range of receptors including ecology, the historic environment, landscape, material assets and human beings. The SEA ER is the final output of the SEA process, which documents the environmental effects of the options within the plan or programme. The ER also shows how environmental considerations have been taken into consideration and influenced decision-making in the preparation of the chosen plan The requirement to undertake SEA in the European Union (EU) came about when the EC Directive (2001/42/EC) on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment, known as the SEA Directive, came into force in The Directive is transposed into UK law by the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations (SI 1633/2004). The Directive and associated regulations make SEA a mandatory requirement for certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment The Directive s overall objective is to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes with a view to promoting sustainable development, by ensuring that, in accordance with this Directive, an environmental assessment is carried out of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment Under Article 2(a), the plans and programmes subject to the SEA Directive are those which are: subject to preparation and/or adoption by an authority at national, regional or local level, or are prepared by an authority for adoption through a legislative procedure by Parliament or Government; and required by legislative, regulatory or administrative provisions Article 3(2) makes SEA mandatory for plans and programmes: that are prepared for agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy, industry, transport, waste management, water management, telecommunications, tourism, town and country planning or land use and which set the framework for future development consent for projects listed in Annexes I and II to Directive 85/337/EEC (the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Directive); or that, in view of the likely effect on sites, have been determined to require an assessment pursuant to Article 6 or 7 of Directive 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) The WRMP is a statutory plan prepared at a regional level. The plan can be categorised as a water management plan and it will set the framework for future development consents. Indeed, a number of the options under consideration for the WRMP are listed in the Annexes I and II of the EIA Directive. Therefore the WRMP, as a statutory plan with potential significant environmental effects, is required to be subject to SEA as defined by SI 1633/

17 1.5 WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLANS The Water Act 2003 amendment to the Water Industry Act (1991) made the production of a Water Resources Management Plan every five years (or more often, if instructed) a statutory obligation for water companies. Figure 1 is taken from the Water Resources Planning guideline (Environment Agency, November 2008) and summarises the key steps in producing a plan. Figure 1 Statutory process for the development of Water Resources Management Plans 16

18 1.6 THE SEA PROCESS The Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive by the ODPM, the Scottish Executive, the Welsh Assembly Government and the Northern Ireland Department of the Environment, published in September 2005, provides guidance on how to comply with the Directive in an environmental assessment of a plan or programme. UK Water Industry Research Limited (UKWIR) also published specific guidance in 2007 on the application of SEA for Water Resources Management Plans and Drought Plans. Both sets of guidance have been considered in the preparation of this SEA The main stages in the SEA process are as follows: Stage A: Setting the context, identifying criteria, problems and opportunities, establishing the baseline and deciding on the scope; Stage B: Developing and refining alternative options and assessing effects; Stage C: Preparing the Environmental Report; Stage D: Consulting on the draft plan and the Environmental Report; and Stage E: Monitoring the significant effects of the plan on the environment Figure 2 sets out the relationship between the above stages and the SEA tasks. 17

19 Figure 2 Relationship between SEA tasks Source: A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive, ODPM, September The ODPM Guidance sets out a requirement for the preparation of the following reports: A Scoping Report which summarises the work carried out at Stage A to be used for consultation on the Scope of the SEA; and An Environmental Report which documents Stages A to C to be used in public consultation on the draft plan or programme The SEA Directive requires that a number of statutory bodies are consulted at an early stage in the SEA process on the scope and level of detail of the information which must be included in the ER. In England, the statutory consultation bodies for SEA, as defined by SI 1633/2004 are: Natural England (encompassing the organisations formerly known as English Nature, the Rural Development Service and the Countryside Agency); 18

20 The Environment Agency; and English Heritage The Directive requires assessment of long term, cumulative and synergistic effects. This requires consideration of time scales which in some cases may extend beyond the period of the strategy. Long term in the context of assessment of environmental effects is generally understood to mean 25+ years. Scope of Environmental Issues Annex I(f) of the SEA Directive lists thirteen factors (and their sub-factors) which must be taken as a starting point when scoping issues in and out of an SEA. The thirteen SEA factors are: Population; Human health; Biodiversity; Flora; Fauna; Soil; Water; Air; Climatic factors; Material assets; Cultural, architectural and archaeological heritage; Landscape; and Inter-relationships between the above factors. 1.7 LINKING THE SEA WITH THE WATER RESOURCES MANAGEMENT PLAN The ODPM s guidance emphasises that SEA is a process that identifies and reports on the likely significant environmental effects of the plan or programme concerned. The SEA involves an iterative process of collecting information, defining alternatives, identifying environmental effects, developing mitigation measures and revising proposals in the light of predicted environmental effects. The intention is that SEA is fully integrated into the planmaking process from the earliest stages Figure 3 illustrates how the WRMP process above relates to stages of the SEA work. 19

21 Figure 3 Relationship between the Water Resources Management Plan and SEA Water Resource Plan Strategic Environmental Assessment Initial Options Screening Definition and agreement of WRMP process, data and assumptions Scoping Identify baseline, set objectives and agree framework for assessment of options Technical supporting studies and analysis Options Assessment Identification and assessment of significant environmental effects of options Options appraisal and refinement Identification of preferred strategy Analysis of alternatives within preferred strategy Analysis of regional context of preferred strategy Assessment of Preferred Strategy Produce Draft Water Resources Plan Produce Draft SEA Environmental Report and issue to Consultees Consultation Period for Draft Water Resources Plan and SEA Environmental Report Incorporate comments Incorporate comments and reissue as required Issue Final WRP Issue Final SEA Environmental Report 1.8 SCOPING REPORT CONSULTATION As stated in Section 1.6, the SEA Directive requires that a number of statutory bodies are consulted on the scope and level of information which must be included in the ER. In order to provide a focus for consultation, a SEA Scoping Report was prepared and sent to the statutory consultees in September 2007, which included Natural England, the Environment Agency, and English Heritage. The Scoping Report included the following information which the consultees were invited to comment upon: A list of other plans and programmes and their environmental protection objectives which are relevant to the WRMP; A summary of relevant baseline information for the study area; A list of the key environmental issues (opportunities and constraints) identified within the WRMP study area; and A draft list of environmental objectives for the plan area against which the options considered for the WRMP were assessed. 20

22 A summary of the comments received at the scoping stage and how they have been addressed is given in Appendix G A Draft Environmental Report on the Company s Draft WRMP was issued to the statutory consultees for comment n May 2008, setting out the work undertaken during the initial stages of the SEA process and the environmental effects of the Company s preferred development plan over the planning period. In May 2008 the Draft ER was also placed on the Company s website alongside the Draft WRMP, as part of the required public consultation process for the WRMP which ran from 6th May 2008 to 1st August In February 2009, the Company issued a Statement of Response to Public Consultation on its Draft WRMP setting out what changes would be made to the Draft WRMP to address the representations. All comments relating to the SEA are summarised in Appendix H and have been addressed within the Final ER. 1.9 ENVIRONMENTAL REPORT CONSULTATION The requirement to produce an Environmental Report arises directly from Article 5.1 of the SEA Directive which states that: An Environmental Report shall be prepared in which the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme, and reasonable alternatives taking into account the objectives and the geographical scope of the plan or programme, are identified, described and evaluated The Environmental Report reports on the work undertaken during the initial stages of the SEA process and takes the process further by reporting on the significant environmental effects of the preferred proposals, proposed mitigation measures and proposals for monitoring significant environmental effects A Draft Environmental Report on the Company s Draft WRMP was issued to the statutory consultees for comment in May 2008, setting out the work undertaken during the initial stages of the SEA process and the environmental effects of the Company s preferred development plan over the planning period. In May 2008 the Draft ER was also placed on the Company s website alongside the Draft WRMP, as part of the required public consultation process for the WRMP which ran from 6th May 2008 to 1st August In February 2009, the Company issued a Statement of Response to Public Consultation on its Draft WRMP setting out what changes would be made to the Draft WRMP to address the representations. All comments received on Environmental Report are summarised in Appendix H and have been addressed within the Final ER. Changes incorporated in the Final ER are also described in the SEA Environmental Statement which accompanies this Report APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT The EC Habitats and Birds Directives and the associated Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994 (The Habitats Regulations) and its amendments place a requirement on plan-makers to assess the potential effects of their plans (in combination with other plans and projects) on sites designated for their nature conservation interests under those regulations. These sites are considered to be of European (and therefore international) importance for nature conservation. Those designated under the Birds Directive are called Special Protection Areas (SPAs), and sites designated under the Habitats Directive are called Special Areas of Conservation (SACs). Collectively these sites are referred to as European sites The process of determining whether or not a plan will affect these site(s) is commonly referred to as appropriate assessment. The actual assessment is a statement which says whether the plan does, or does not affect the integrity of a European site. 21

23 Water companies are classed as Statutory Undertakers and hence are 'Competent Authorities' under the Habitats Regulations. Therefore, SESW is responsible for considering the need for Appropriate Assessment for their plans, as required under the regulations The SESW supply area encompasses a number of European sites, and there are a number of options that have the potential to affect one or more of these sites. An Appropriate Assessment of the strategic water resource plan may be required, depending on the choice of option, to ensure that any negative effects on overall European sites integrity are avoided altogether, mitigated to an acceptable level or compensated for. 22

24 2 CURRENT AND FUTURE RESOURCES IN THE SUTTON AND EAST SURREY WATER SUPPLY AREA 2.1 SOURCES OF SUPPLY Approximately 85% of the Company s water supply is provided from groundwater sources located within the North Downs Chalk, Unconfined Chalk, Mole Valley Chalk and Lower Greensand sources The remaining 15% of the water resources is provided from Reservoir A in the River Eden catchment, which is the Company s only surface water source. The pumped storage reservoir abstracts water from the River Eden during the autumn, winter and spring between September and April. 2.2 RECENT WATER RESOURCE DEVELOPMENTS Source improvements at existing sources The Company has carried out a number of improvements to its existing sources over the last five year period as detailed below: Sutton Water Resource Zone Unconfined Chalk. Two new boreholes were drilled in 2005/06. Following test pumping one borehole was subsequently licensed by the EA resulting in a small increase in peak deployable output North Downs Confined Chalk. In 2006/07 the Company reached an agreement with the EA to aggregate a commercial licence with an existing company group licence. This allows SESW to abstract any surplus volume from the commercial licence and has resulted in an increase in both average and peak deployable output North Downs Chalk aquifer recharge scheme. An aquifer recharge scheme is now operational following successful recharge and abstraction tests carried out during 2005/06 and 2006/07. Available licensed abstraction from the unconfined Chalk aquifer during the winter period is used to recharge the confined Chalk aquifer for subsequent re-abstraction during peak demand periods. The scheme was licensed by the EA in May This resulted in an increase in peak deployable output North Downs Confined Chalk. The EA has issued a licence variation which transfers one East Surrey source to the Sutton zone, to allow better strategic use of the two source groups. A new borehole (GW1) was drilled in 2007/08. The borehole has now been licensed by the EA and following final connection works an increase in peak DO is anticipated by the end of This DO increase has not been incorporated within the reassessed DO figures but is included as a planned resource scheme within the supply-demand balance. East Surrey Water Resource Zone Mole Valley Chalk. The Company has carried out clearance pumping at source 20 and gathered information on total springflow for inclusion within the assessment of DO. 23

25 2.2.7 Lower Greensand. Two new boreholes were drilled in 2003/04 and 2004/05 at sources 27 and 28, which has increased the average and peak DO Lower Greensand. The borehole at source 24 was re-lined in 2004/05 due to high ammonia levels. This has resulted in ammonia levels reducing to within acceptable limits and has increased both average and peak DO Lower Greensand. A new borehole at source 25 site was drilled in 2004/05 due to high pesticide levels. Whilst pesticide levels have reduced, ammonia levels have increased beyond acceptable limits and this source is currently not used. Reservoir A licence modifications In May 2007 SESW secured an amendment to the Reservoir A abstraction licence to increase peak week output to 70Ml/d. The existing peak output capacity of the treatment works is limited to 36Ml/d, which will be increased to 45Ml/d by March 2010 following ongoing refurbishment works. 2.3 THE SUPPLY-DEMAND BALANCE In a typical weather year the current daily average demand for the SESW supply area is around Million litres daily (Ml/day). Demands during the summer period typically increase above 200Ml/d predominately due to increased garden watering and other outdoor water use The Company has a current deficit in resources during the dry year peak period which is driving the need for new water resource developments during the planning period as detailed within the Company s Final WRMP SESW has adopted a twin track approach to water resource planning, by reducing demand and by developing new supplies. All potential resource development and demand management options available to the Company to maintain the supply demand balance have been considered within the Final WRMP as follows: Option Option 1.1 Option 1.2 Option 2.1 Option 2.2 Option 2.3 Option 2.4 Option 3.2 Option 3.3 Description Increase peak week capacity of Reservoir A from 45Ml/d to 70Ml/d. Raise Reservoir A embankment. 9.2Ml/d increase in average yield. Scheme GW3 (Mole Valley Chalk). 0.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW4 (Lower Greensand). 1.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW5 (Lower Greensand). 0.2Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW6 (Lower Greensand). 1.4Ml/d increase in peak and average yield. Scheme GW8 (North Downs Chalk: ASR). 5Ml/d increase in peak yield. Scheme GW9 (Lower Greensand ASR). 5Ml/d increase in peak yield. 24

26 Option 4.1 Bulk Supply from the Thames Water strategic resource development in Ml/d. Option 5.1 Enhanced metering to achieve 90% meter penetration in Option 5.2 Enhanced metering to achieve 90% meter penetration by Option 6.1 Option 6.2 Option 6.3 Option 6.4 Option 6.5 Option 6.6 Option 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3 Schools retrofit programme to install a range of water efficiency measures in schools across the Company supply area. Elderly care home retrofit programme to install water efficiency devices within elderly case homes across the Company supply area. A general non-household programme, to raise awareness of water efficiency amongst targeted non household customers, and installation of water efficiency devices. Targeted Company retrofit of existing households with water saving devices within a targeted group of existing households. Targeted horticultural management plan to provide advice to householders on how water efficient gardening practices and garden design can reduce water consumption. Targeted DIY retrofit of existing households through issue of Water Efficiency Packs to participating households. Three proposals for leakage reduction have been considered for a 1Ml/d, 2Ml/d and 4Ml/d reduction below the current level of leakage. Preferred Strategy The Company s Final WRMP, which has included a detailed appraisal of the costs and benefits of each option, including environmental and social costs, demonstrates that the preferred least cost strategy is to increase the output from Reservoir A WTW in 2012 (Option 1.1), alongside enhanced household metering (Option 5.1), the schools efficiency programme (Option 6.1), and a longer term leakage reduction programme to reduce leakage by around 3.5Ml/d to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and The Company s preferred development plan would maintain the supply demand balance throughout the planning period from 2007/08 to 2034/35. Reservoir A Option 1.1 would involve increasing the capacity of the Water Treatment Works at Reservoir A from 45Ml/d to the licensed peak abstraction volume of 70Ml/d, providing a 25Ml/d increase in peak output. Utilisation of the full peak licence for Reservoir A will provide substantial benefits to the Company and its customers during drought periods including: Immediate improvement to the resilience of the Company s resources during drought periods. The supply demand balance will be maintained throughout the planning period, avoiding the need for other more expensive and environmentally damaging resource development; More efficient use of raw water that is already stored and available for use. The increase in output and network capacity will allow more flexibility and greater resting/conjunctive use of groundwater sources, substantially reducing the risk of supply side failure and the need for emergency measures. 25

27 2.3.6 The new daily peak licence of 70Ml/d for Reservoir A was granted by the EA in May 2007, recognising the important role that the reservoir can play in meeting peak demand and providing long term security of supply for the Company s customers. The scheme will allow more effective use of water stored within the reservoir to meet peak demand and would not alter the existing abstraction limits from the River Eden Whilst the strategic bulk supply from the Thames Water strategic resource development has been identified as marginally environmentally favourable to Option 1.1, due to the potential environmental benefits arising from the strategic use of water resources across the region, the transfer option would not be available to SESW until at least 2026 which is too late to meet the forecast growth in demand within the supply area. Domestic metering The final strategy also includes the Company s proposed metering programme to achieve 90% meter penetration by 2025 (Option 5.1 Enhanced Metering 1). The Company plans to install 32,000 meters during the period , similar to the existing rate of metering for It is expected that the metering programme to 2015 will be achieved through a combination of metering of optants and metering on change of occupancy. Beyond 2015, the Company proposes to accelerate its metering programme to achieve full metering (90% penetration) by 2025 using a combination of metering on change of occupancy, compulsory metering, and free meter optants. The proposal to move towards universal metering is strongly supported by the Company s customers and the Environment Agency. Leakage The Company s most significant water saving initiative is its positive approach to leakage management. The Company remains the only company in the UK water industry to operate a performance contract where its leak detection contractor is paid solely on measured reductions in night flow rates. The Company s leakage level is one of the lowest in England and Wales. The Company s current level of leakage is 24.5Ml/d which is below the Company s Sustainable Economic Level of Leakage, which has been estimated as 27.3Ml/d as presented in the Final WRMP The Final WRMP has shown that short term leakage reductions are not currently economic when compared to other resource side and demand management options. The Company s leakage strategy for the planning period is to maintain leakage at the current level of 24.5Ml/d to Subject to funding in the longer term the Company then intends to reduce leakage to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and 2035, representing an overall reduction of approximately 3.5Ml/d. Water Efficiency Since completion of the Draft WRMP the Company has completed a detailed review of additional water efficiency options, which are included within the Final WRMP alongside other demand management and supply side options. This work has included a review of the Waterwise final report, Evidence base for Large-Scale Water Efficiency, published in October As a result of the additional work on water efficiency options the Company has included the schools water efficiency retro-fit programme (Option 6.1) within the final planning strategy. The schools programme will include advice and assistance in installing water efficient devices and fittings, and/or replacing sanitary ware with new modern water efficient equivalents. The programme will provide the Company with an opportunity to educate the schools pupils and staff about a whole range of sustainability matters. 26

28 3 SEA METHODOLOGY 3.1 APPROACH TO THE SEA AND PREDICTION METHODOLOGY The overall approach to the SEA is objective-led. This means that the environmental performance of the plan options has been tested (assessed) against a series of high-level environmental objectives set for the study area. This approach is in line with that recommended within the ODPM Guidance on SEA (Ref. 17) The first stage in setting the SEA objectives was to collect baseline data for the study area. The data collection was broadly based around the list of environmental factors in Annex I(f) of the SEA Directive as indicated in section 1.6, and focussed on those aspects of the environmental factors that were considered relevant to the WRMP The environmental protection objectives of other plans, policies and programmes relevant to the study area were also reviewed at the Scoping stage. The review of these other plan objectives and the baseline data was used to identify a list of key environmental themes and key environmental issues for the study area that are relevant to the WRMP A draft list of SEA objectives was developed around these environmental themes and issues, and was included in the Scoping Report. The list and wording of the objectives was subsequently refined following receipt of consultation comments on the Scoping Report The Final WRMP options have been tested against these refined objectives by predicting to what degree the option would either meet/contribute to each objective, or conflict with it. The following sections outline how this process of assessment against objectives has been undertaken The assessment process for each resource development and demand management option was broken down into five components/stages: Identification and prediction of effects; Evaluation of effect significance; Mitigation measures (if required); Level of residual effect; and Identification of pathways for cumulative/synergistic effects The process and rationale associated with each stage of the assessment is explained further in the following sections. The environmental assessment of individual options was undertaken using a standard pro forma to record the assessment. Prediction of Effects The prediction of effects involved the identification of potential changes to the documented environmental baseline conditions which were considered likely to arise from each option. The predicted effects were then described in terms of their nature and magnitude with consideration of the following parameters: Geographical scale (local, regional, national or international); Probability of the effect occurring (low, medium, high); Timing of effect (short 0-5 years, medium 5-15 years, long term 15+ years); 27

29 Duration of effect (temporary or permanent); Nature and significance of effect (positive, negative or neutral on a set scale of significance, see Table The main method used to predict effects was a qualitative assessment based on expert judgement. This was aided by a prompt list of key questions to be considered in relation to each objective. Spatial analysis of each option in relation to environmental baseline features was also used. This used maps showing baseline features that could be affected by the option, to help the assessor determine the likelihood of effects occurring In the current practice of strategic environmental assessment, the broad-brush qualitative prediction and evaluation of effects is often based on a qualitative seven point scale using easily understood terms. The assessment of the water resource options for the WRMP has adopted the scale shown in Table Moderately and strongly positive and negative effects were considered to be environmentally significant, whereas neutral and slightly positive and negative effects were considered nonsignificant. Table 3.1 Categorisation of significance of effects Assessment Scale Significance of Effect/Appraisal Category +++ Major positive ++ Moderate positive + Slightly positive 0 Neutral - Slightly negative -- Moderate negative --- Major negative Mitigation Measures Where significant (i.e. moderate or major) adverse effects were identified, mitigation measures were described for the assessment of each SEA objective. A list of standard mitigation measures was developed, and supplemented by option-specific mitigation measures where necessary. The option-specific mitigation was developed as part of the individual option assessments. Evaluation of Residual Effects The next stage of the assessment involved the evaluation of the significant effects following mitigation. The evaluation involved forming a judgement on whether or not the predicted effects would still be environmentally significant once mitigation measures were applied. As part of this the assessment considered the likelihood of the success of the mitigation measures in altering the environmental outcome of implementing the option. The technique that was primarily used to assess the significance of effects was a qualitative assessment based on expert judgement. 28

30 Cumulative and Synergistic Effects The assessment of cumulative effects is recognised as an essential part of SEA, and has been integrated into the process of assessment for the WRMP. The Practical Guide to the SEA Directive (ODPM, 2005) defines these types of effects in the following way: Secondary or indirect effects are effects that are not a direct result of the plan, but occur away from the original effect or as a result of a complex pathway. Examples of secondary effects are a development that changes a water table and thus affects the ecology of a nearby wetland; and construction of one project that facilitates or attracts other developments. Cumulative effects arise, for instance, where several developments each have insignificant effects but together have a significant effect; or where several individual effects of the plan (e.g. noise, dust and visual) have a combined effect. Synergistic effects interact to produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual effects. Synergistic effects often happen as habitats, resources or human communities get close to capacity. For instance a wildlife habitat can become progressively fragmented with limited effects on a particular species until the last fragmentation makes the areas too small to support the species at all There are therefore two main aspects associated with cumulative effect assessment in SEA. The first is in examining whether the sum of the effects of options proposed within the plan is greater than those identified for individual schemes. The second is examining the individual and cumulative effects within the plan, and considering them against other policies, plans and programmes which are relevant to the study area. The methodology for assessing both types of effects is given below. Cumulative effects of plan options The final element of the options appraisal was the preliminary identification of possible pathways where secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects could also arise within or between options. Again, the technique primarily used to assess the significance of effects in this assessment was a qualitative assessment based on expert judgement. Cumulative effects with neighbouring water resource plans The SESW supply area shares boundaries with a number of other water utility companies who have each prepared WRMPs for their supply areas. The potential for cumulative effects with other companies schemes is given consideration in Section 6. 29

31 4 DEVELOPING THE SEA FRAMEWORK 4.1 REVIEW OF RELEVANT PLANS AND PROGRAMMES In order to set the context of the SEA; policies, plans and programmes that are of relevance to the WRMP in terms of objectives and spatial connectivity have been reviewed. The aim of the review is to provide information on the WRMPs relationship with these documents and the environmental protection objectives, established at international or national level, which are relevant to the strategy. The review therefore identifies the environmental objectives arising from existing documents and outlines how those objectives could influence the development of the WRMP. Plans and strategies for the region and local areas relevant to the study have also been reviewed. The review identifies potential environmental issues and assists in the setting of environmental objectives for the SEA A full list of documents reviewed is provided in Table 4.1. Appendix A documents the review process and summarises where the main environmental themes and objectives emerge from the plans, programmes and polices. These themes and objectives have been taken into account when setting the SEA objectives to assess the environmental effects of the different water resource options The major environmental themes identified by the review to date include: 1. Protect and enhance recreation and access to the countryside 2. Protect and enhance biodiversity 3. Protect and enhance endangered species and habitats 4. Avoid damage to and fragmentation of habitats 5. Maintain, improve and develop salmonid and freshwater fisheries 6. Maintain and enhance landscape character 7. Protect and enhance building sites and features of architectural, historical and archaeological interest and their settings 8. Improve and protect inland, coastal and groundwater quality 9. Reduce the risk of flooding 10. Respecting environmental limits of the water environment whilst responding to future challenges and demands on water 11. Promote water demand management, including metering 12. Reduce levels of leakage in water supply networks 13. Control surface water and ground water abstractions keeping them within their limits of replenishment 14. Reduce contributions to climate change by reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases 15. Conserve and where appropriate enhance the historic and cultural environment 16. Conserve soil resources and maintain their quality 17. Encourage the prudent use of natural resources 18. Minimise the use of energy and optimise the use of renewable resources 19. Maintain and improve air quality. 30

32 Table 4.1 List of plans, policies and programmes reviewed. International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands 1971 EC Directive on Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EEC) EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC) Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the Community action in the field of water policy (EU Water Framework Directive or WFD) Directive 2006/118/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change Nitrates Directive (91/676/EC) Air Quality Directives (96/62/EC and 99/30/EC) Freshwater Fisheries Directive (78/659/EEC) Urban Waste Water treatment Directive (91/271/EEC) Waste Framework Directive (75/442/EC) Hazardous Waste Directive (91/689/EC) Bathing Water Quality Directive (76/160/EEC) Drinking Water Quality Directive (98/86/EC) EU 6 th Environmental Action Plan, September 2002 EU Sustainable Development Strategy, May 2001 EU Biodiversity Action Plan, February 1998 The European Landscape Convention 2006 The European Convention on the Protection of Archaeological Heritage (Revised) 2001 National Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 Section 74 Biological diversity The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) (Amendment) Regulations 2007 Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975 (as amended) Water Resources Act 1991 Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act 2006 Environment Act 1995 Environmental Protection Act 1990 Protection of Badgers Act 1992 PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development, ODPM 1997 PPG2 Greenbelts, ODPM 1995 PPS3 Housing, ODPM 2006 PPS7 Sustainable Development in Rural Areas, ODPM 2004 PPS 9 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation, ODPM, 2005 PPS 10 Planning for Sustainable Waste Management, ODPM

33 PPS 12 Local Development Frameworks, ODPM 2004 PPG 13 Transport, ODPM 1994 PPG 15 Planning and the Historic Environment PPG 16 Archaeology PPG 17 Planning for open space, sport and recreation PPG 20 Coastal Planning, ODPM 1992 PPS 22 Renewable Energy 2004 PPS23 Planning & Pollution Control PPS25 Development and Flood Risk The Historic Environment: A Force for Our Future, DCMS 2001 Making Space for Water: Taking forward a new Government Strategy for flood and coastal erosion risk management, Defra 2004 National Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP Steering Group, 1994) Working with the Grain of Nature: A Biodiversity Strategy for England, 2002 UK Air Quality Strategy 2007 UK Sustainable Development Strategy, HM Government 2005 Sustainable Communities Plan, ODPM 2003 UK Climate Change Programme, DETR 2000 Consultation Draft: Better Sea Trout and Salmon Fisheries: Our Strategy , Environment Agency, National Trout and Grayling Fisheries Strategy, Environment Agency, 2003 Securing the Future UK Government Sustainable Development Strategy, Defra, 2005 Managing Water Abstraction: The Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy Process, Environment Agency, Updated 2002, along with the Interim Update produced in 2006 Future Water: The Governments Water Strategy for England, Defra, 2008 Directing the Flow: Priorities for Future Water Policy, Defra, 2002 Water Resources for the Future: A Strategy for England and Wales, Environment Agency, 2001 Water Resources for People and Environment: Developing our Water Resources Strategy for England and Wales Consultation document, Environment Agency 2007 Water Resources Planning Guideline, Environment Agency, 2007 Economics of Balancing Supply and Demand Guidelines, UKWIR A Better Place to Play: Strategy for Water Related Sport & Recreation , Environment Agency A Better Environment, Healthier Fisheries. Better Fisheries for our Nations: Our Strategy , Environment Agency Just Add Water: How Our Inland Waterways can do More for Rural Regeneration, Inland Waterways Amenity Advisory Council 2005 Taking Water Responsibly: Government Decisions Following Consultation on Changes to the Water Abstraction Licensing System in England and Wales, Defra 1999 Restoring Sustainable Abstraction Programme, Environment Agency 1999 Maintaining Water Supply: The Environment Agency s advice to Ministers on the final water resource plans submitted by water companies as part of the 2004 periodic review, Environment Agency 2004 Water Industry Environmental Improvement Programme (AMP), Environment Agency Climate Change and The Historic Environment, English Heritage 2006 The England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative 32

34 Regional Regional Planning Guidance for the South East (RPG9) Draft South East Plan, SEERA, August 2007 Regional Economic Strategy for SE England, SEEDA Sustainable Communities in the South East: Building for the future, ODPM 2003 Seeing the Wood for the Trees: A forestry and woodlands framework for the South East Region Core Report Part of the Integrated Regional Framework 2004: A Better Quality of Life in the South East, SEERA, 2004 South East England Social Inclusion Statement, SEERA Draft Drought Plan for Southern Region, Environment Agency SEW Draft Drought Plan, SEW 2006 Executive Summary Price Review Water Resources Plan, SEW 2004 Southern Water Draft Drought Plan for Consultation, Southern Water 2006 Sutton and East Surrey Water Plc: Drought Plan, Sutton and East Surrey Water 2008 Draft Statutory Drought Plan, Mid Kent Water 2006 State of the Environment 2007: An assessment of the environment in South East England, Environment Agency 2007 Water Resources for the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Southern Region, Environment Agency 2001 Water Resources for the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Thames Region, Environment Agency 2001 Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues South East River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues Thames River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 Thames Region Catchment Flood Management Plan. Consultation document, Environment Agency, 2007 Countywide Surrey Structure Plan, Surrey County Council 2004 Surrey BAP, Surrey County Council 1999 Surrey Waste Local Plan, Surrey County Council 1997 The London Plan, Greater London Authority 2006 Early Alterations to the London Plan: housing provision targets, waste and minerals alterations, Greater London Authority 2006 Further Alterations to the London Plan, Greater London Authority 2006 Connecting with London s Nature: The Mayor s Biodiversity Strategy, Greater London Authority 2002 Action Today to Protect Tomorrow: The Mayor s Climate Change Action Plan, Greater London Authority 2007 Green light to clean power: The Mayor s Energy Strategy, Greater London Authority 2004 Rethinking Rubbish in London: The Mayor s Municipal Waste Management Strategy, Greater London Authority 2003 Making Waste Work in London: The Mayor s Business Waste Management Strategy, Greater London Authority 2007 Water matters: The Mayor s Draft Water Strategy, Greater London Authority 2007 Kent and Medway Structure Plan

35 Kent and Medway Structure Plan, Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance, SPG1 Landscape Character, Kent County Council and Medway Council, 2003 Kent and Medway Structure Plan, Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance, SPG2 Biodiversity Conservation, Kent County Council and Medway Council, 2003 Kent BAP, Kent County Council, 1997 Kent Waste Local Plan, Kent County Council, 1998 Rights of Way Improvement Plan for Kent (not published) East Sussex and Brighton and Hove Structure Plan West Sussex Structure Plan West Sussex Minerals and Waste Development Framework, West Sussex County Council From Rio to Sussex, Action for Biodiversity East Sussex Rights of Way Improvement Plan Rights of Way Improvement plan, Consultation Draft, 2006, West Sussex County Council Drought Plan for Southern Region: Kent Area, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Southern Region: Sussex Area, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Southern Region: Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Thames Region; South East Area, Environment Agency, April 2007 Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan Local Crawley Local Development Framework, Crawley Borough Council Crawley Local Plan Adopted, Crawley Borough Council, 2000 Croydon Local Development Framework, Croydon Council Croydon Replacement Unitary Development Plan, Croydon Council, 2006 Elmbridge Borough Local Development Framework, Elmbridge Borough Council Replacement Elmbridge Borough Local Plan, Elmbridge Borough Council, 2000 Epsom & Ewell Local Development Framework, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Epsom & Ewell District-Wide Local Plan, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, 2000 Merton Local Development Framework, Merton Council London Borough of Merton Unitary Development Plan, Merton Council, 2003 Mole Valley Local Development Framework, Mole Valley District Council Mole Valley Local Plan, Mole Valley District Council, 2000 Reigate & Banstead Local Development Framework, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council Reigate & Banstead Borough Local Plan, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, 2005 Sevenoaks District Council Local Plan, Adopted 2000 Sevenoaks District Council Local Development Framework, 2006 Sutton Local Development Framework, London Borough OF Sutton Sutton Unitary Development Plan, London Borough of Sutton, 2003 Tandridge Local Development Framework, Tandridge District Council Tandridge District Local Plan, Tandridge District Council,

36 The Mole Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency 2006 The Medway Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency 2005 Thames Corridor Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency The River Mole Flood Risk Management Strategy Study, Environment Agency, 2006 The Medway Catchment Flood Management Plan, Environment Agency, Reigate Heath SSSI Water Level Management Plan 4.2 SEA BASELINE The SEA Directive requires that the Environmental Report should provide information on: Relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan and the; Environmental characteristics of the areas likely to be significantly affected, and any existing environmental problems which are relevant to the plan or programme including, in particular, those relating to any areas of a particular environmental importance, such as areas designated pursuant to Directives 79/409/EEC (Birds Directive) and 92/43/EEC (Habitats Directive) The baseline provides a benchmark against which the predicted effects of the strategic options can be assessed at later stages in the SEA, but also allows identification of any environmental issues of relevance to the study area. These can also help to examine where there are particular environmental constraints or opportunities associated with individual options under consideration A substantial amount of information has been obtained from the other plans and programmes that have been reviewed for the study area, as well as other types of documents. The SEA covers a fairly large geographical area and it is important to ensure that the baseline data collated is both manageable and relevant. Therefore a review of the options list was undertaken and only data that was considered to be of relevance to the options under consideration was included Data has also only been collected in relation to the environmental issues that have been scoped into the SEA. It is important to note that baseline data collection does not end after the Scoping stage. Where additional information was identified as being of relevance following consultation or at later stages of the SEA, it has been incorporated into this Environmental Report. Any specific gaps in knowledge have been identified Typical sources of data have included (but are not limited to): Forecasts of population and housing growth within the study area; Environment Agency Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS); Information available on the Natural England website relating to designated sites for nature conservation and landscape character; Information available on Local Biodiversity Action Plan websites relating to designated sites for nature conservation and landscape character; and Environment Agency water quality data. Population and human health 35

37 Population and property growth Population and property growth rates have been derived throughout the planning period to 2034/35 in accordance with the latest Environment Agency guidance. Property figures for the base year (2007/08) have been taken directly from SESW s billing system for each of the different property types. As the Company has a good record of property data from its customer billing database, this is considered to be the most accurate record of base year property numbers The forecast growth in the number of new households within each WRZ has been obtained from a study carried out by Experian Business Strategies on behalf of a group of water companies in South East England, including SESW. Experian were commissioned to produce a range of household and demographic data to inform the Company s demand forecast for the 25 year planning period Three sets of projections have been provided by Experian: A trend-based projection, based on Office of National Statistics (ONS), local authority and unitary authority district (LAUAD) population estimates and projections; A policy-driven projection, based on a combination of ONS population projections aligned to LAUAD housing allocations as promulgated in the draft regional plans; and A most likely scenario projection, based on combination of the population growth from the policy based projections constrained to the total national trend based projection The most likely scenario has been used as the basis for the predicted growth in household numbers within the demand forecast Experian forecasts for the Draft WRMP took into account the property and population projections taken from the Draft South East Plan (Draft SEP) which was submitted by the South East England Regional Assembly (SEERA) to Government on 31 March Further public consultation of the Draft SEP was followed by an Examination in Public between November 2006 and April The Inspector s report was published on 29 August 2007 and proposed changes to the Regional Spatial Strategy were published by the Secretary of State on 17 July Consultation on these changes ended on 24 October Following publication of the Draft WRMP, Experian updated their property and population forecasts in October 2008, taking into account the changes proposed by the Secretary of State in July 2008, and latest available figures from the Office of National Statistics. Our Final WRMP includes these latest Experian forecasts (October 2008) for population and housing growth The Experian most likely scenario has been incorporated within the Company s demand forecast as the best estimate forecast of population growth with the supply area during the planning period to 2034/35. Under this scenario the Experian study predicts that the number of households within the SESW supply area will increase by approximately 68,000 over the planning period from 2007/08 to 2034/35. This is equivalent to an annual average rate of rise of around 2,510 new households within the Company s supply area as shown below in Table 4.2. Table 4.2 Estimated annual household growth within SESW supply area Water Resource Zone Average housing provision / annum Sutton 1,139 East Surrey 1,371 Company total 2,510 36

38 Non-household properties Based on historic data there has been little change in the number of non-household numbers within the Company supply area. The Company has no reliable information on which to forecast any change in the numbers of non-household properties and it has therefore been assumed that the number of non-household properties will remain unchanged throughout the planning period. Population and Occupancy Rates The Final WRMP incorporates revised forecast of population growth and occupancy rates, rebased to 2007/08 using the Company s reported population figures stated within the June Return These figures are the Company s best estimate of the resident population within the supply area for 2007/08 based on current Company estimates of occupancy rates and latest property numbers from the Company s billing database. At Company level the reported population figure for 2007/08 (646,676) is approximately 1% higher than the previous estimate stated within Draft WRMP (638,710) Growth in population is based on forecast changes in household occupancy rate as provided by the latest Experian forecasts (October 2008), using the most likely planning scenario. The forecast population numbers at Water Resource Zone and Company Level are shown in Table 4.3 Table 4.3 Population estimates Water Resource Zone Total Population 2007/08 Total Population 2034/25 Population Growth Sutton 293, ,028 47,158 East Surrey 352, ,684 47,878 Company 646, ,712 95, The forecast occupancy rates in the Final WRMP are based on projected household occupancy rates provided by the Experian Study, and shown in Table 4.4. In accordance with national trends this shows a projected decrease in household occupancy rates due to an expected significant increase in single occupancy households. At Company level the average household occupancy rate falls from 2.52 in 2007/08 to 2.29 in 2034/35. Table 4.4 Average household occupancy rates Water Resource Zone Average household occupancy rate 2007/08 Average household occupancy rate 2034/35 Sutton East Surrey Company Further detail on the updated forecast of population growth and demand forecast is given within the Final WRMP report. Health of population by Local Authority Health data is provided by the ONS 2001 Census data. For the purposes of this report data has been extracted for selected local authorities within the SESW resource zones. 37

39 Table 4.5 lists the percentage of respondents to the 2001 Census describing their general health as Good, Fairly Good and Not Good for each of the selected local authority areas. Statistics for the South East of England and England as a whole are also shown for comparison. Table 4.5 Population health by Local Authority areas Local Authority General Good (%) Health General Health Fairly Good (%) General Health Not Good (%) Crawley Croydon Elmbridge Epsom & Ewell Merton Mole Valley Reigate & Banstead Sevenoaks Sutton Tandridge South East England England Recreation and amenity There is an extensive network of public rights of way throughout the study area, including footpaths, cycle routes and bridleways. Of particular note is the North Downs Way National Trail. It begins in Farnham, Surrey and follows the ridge of the North Downs for approximately 150 miles into Kent where it meets that sea at Dover. There is a loop at the eastern end of the trail which passes through Canterbury. Other major routes include: The Vanguard Way, a unique, long-distance walking trail in South East England. The trail runs from Croydon through the western end of the Eden Valley, Crockham Hill, Haxted and Marsh Green, on its way to Seaford on the coast. The Greensand Way between Haslemere in the south western corner of Surrey and Hamstreet in Kent, passing through Toys Hill on the northern rim of the Eden Valley The rivers and other waterbodies within the study area are important resources for both informal recreation activities such as walking and cycling, as well as more formal activities such as angling and water sports. Rivers within the study area are known to be utilised to varying extent by canoeists. The Wandle, in particular, is a popular river for canoeing from Merton to the Thames at Wandsworth Reservoir A is an important recreational resource for the region. Owned by Sutton and East Surrey Water the reservoir is known for its bird watching and coarse fishery and is home to a sailing club. 38

40 Navigation There are no navigable reaches of river within the study area. However, the River Medway is navigable from Allington Lock (the tidal limit) to the Leigh Barrier, with the Navigation maintained by a series of sluices, weirs and locks. Also, an Act was passed by parliament in 1664 to make the River Mole navigable from Reigate to the River Thames, but this was never executed. Biodiversity, flora and fauna Designated nature conservation sites The SESW supply area is home to a diverse range of habitats and species, a number of which are water dependent. The area includes the catchment of the River Mole and the River Eden, part of the wider River Medway catchment, as well as the smaller tributaries of the Thames. Ponds are particularly important in the Mole catchment, while other habitats reliant on water include streams, wet woodland, fens, mires, wet heath and marshy grassland. These habitats and the species they are home to can be found on the full range of statutory and non-statutory sites, as well as non-designated areas that form important links. A list of statutory and non-statutory designated nature conservation sites is provided in Appendix B and maps of these designations are held in Appendix E Nature conservation areas may potentially be directly affected by any physical construction works required by the options. There is a risk of sites to be further affected by water resource options, particularly where their ecology or status relies on water quality or quantity. The main internationally, nationally and locally designated water-dependent sites in the study area are outlined below The supply area contains small composite parts of two Special Protection Areas (SPAs). Knight and Bessborough Reservoirs Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) is a component SSSI of the South West London Waterbodies SPA which is also a Ramsar wetland. This particular SSSI consists of two connected, artificially embanked water storage reservoirs which support a variety of waterfowl, including nationally important numbers of wintering shoveler. Wintering gadwall, cormorant and goldeneye also occur in notable numbers. In 2007, Natural England assesses this SSSI as in favourable condition Ockham and Wisley Commons SSSI is a component SSSI of Thames Basin Heaths SPA near Cobham. However, the designated features of the SPA are not water dependent The Mole catchment supports one Special Area of Conservation (SAC) known as the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SAC, which consists of the majority of the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SSSI. In 2007, Natural England assessed this SSSI as in unfavourable but recovering condition. Unfavourable condition is attributed to inappropriate management. There are seven designated features of European interest in this SSSI, most of which are not water-dependent. However, one of the features of interest is the occurrence of great crested newts, for which this area is considered to support a significant presence. This species needs ponds and pools for breeding but also suitable adjacent terrestrial habitats to hibernate and feed for most of the year. This site fulfils these habitat requirements and is therefore one of the best sites in Europe for this species. As well as being listed in Annexes II and IV of the Habitats Directive, the great crested newt is listed in Appendix II of the Bern Convention, and is fully protected under The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and is a priority UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) species Ponds are important wetland habitats in the area and are relatively common, particularly on the clay. Those on clay are primarily dependent on surface water rather than groundwater sources. A number of the SSSIs contain ponds, some of which support rare and declining species, often in association with other surrounding wetland habitats. Bookham Commons SSSI, situated on the London Clay, has several woodland ponds that support thread-leaved 39

41 water-crowfoot, which is rare in Surrey and fat duckweed, which is uncommon in the county. Tall fen vegetation occurs in the chain of ponds and support orange foxtail and eared willow, which are both scarce in Surrey. The ponds and fen also support a range of breeding birds including reed bunting, a priority species in the UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP). The Bookham Brook, a tributary of the Mole, also flows through the woodland. In 2000, Natural England assesses the two SSSI units as favourable and unfavourable recovering condition. No reasons for unfavourable condition are attributed Buchan Hill Ponds SSSI includes three ponds that are the best example in West Sussex of Wealden hammer ponds on acid Tunbridge Wells sands and these, together with the marginal fen communities, support a range of wetland plants. The ponds and surrounding vegetation support 17 species of dragonfly which represents a nationally significant population and includes the hairy dragonfly and brilliant emerald which are both nationally uncommon. The ponds are surrounded by wet woodland, which is a priority habitat in the UK BAP and supports a rich ground flora. The condition of this SSSI is unfavourable recovering, but this is mainly due to site management issues rather than reduced water availability. In 2003, Natural England assessed the condition of this SSSI as being in unfavourable recovering, but this is mainly due to site management issues and the presence of Rhododendron, not water levels Epsom and Ashtead Commons SSSI, situated on the London Clay, contains a number of ponds, including two dating from medieval times as well as smaller woodland ponds and The Rye Stream. The medieval ponds support the richest flora of all the ponds and include white water lily, which is rare in Surrey, and narrow-leaved water-plantain, which is scarce and declining in the county. There are a number of breeding birds associated with the open water, including kingfisher and little grebe. The two medieval ponds are considered to be in unfavourable condition with no change for a number of reasons including overstocking of fish, lack of aquatic flora and scrub encroachment. Water resources are not considered a problem here due to the ponds being on clay and therefore not dependent on groundwater. The nearby Stones Road Pond SSSI consists of a large, deep pond which is an important breeding site for the great crested newt, Triturus cristatus. The site is situated in an urban area on the edge of a former playing field and allotment gardens. Stones Road Pond is in favourable condition according to the 2007 condition assessment carried out by Natural England Reigate Heath SSSI supports a range of habitats including wet alder carr woodland and marshy meadows. When notified the woodland had a rich ground flora including the Surrey rarity white sedge, while the marshy meadows had a large colony of southern marsh-orchid which is uncommon in the county and has since greatly declined. In 2005, Natural England assessed this SSSI as being in unfavourable condition with no change. The Wallace Brook runs along the eastern edge of the meadows and provides a feeding area for birds such as kingfisher. Since at least the 1970s, this site has suffered from severe adverse hydrological impacts possibly due to drainage issues outside of the SSSI boundary causing lowering of the water table. Long term depression of the underlying aquifer has occurred to the west. Dredging of the Wallace Brook and lack of management of the site are also likely to have contributed to its poor condition. The peat soil is drying out and shrinking, resulting in soil erosion and the invasion of terrestrial species. The alder woodland has been assessed as unfavourable, declining while the marshy meadows have been assessed as unfavourable, no change. Water resources have therefore been identified as a major issue with this site. The Mole CAMS consultation document states that any new consumptive abstraction licence near to the site is unlikely to be granted, and would only be permitted with suitable constraints to protect the environment. The Environment Agency stress that restoration of historic water levels is urgently required if the site is to return to favourable condition. The Reigate Heath Water Level Management Plan is currently investigating the reasons for the site drying out in order to propose potential remedies Cowden Meadow SSSI and Polebrook Farm SSSI are within the Eden catchment. Cowden Meadow is noted as one of the best remaining areas of unimproved neutral grassland in Kent. The central part of the meadow is very wet and has vegetation dominated by hard rush 40

42 Juncus inflexus. Three other species of rush and seven species of sedge (Carex spp) are found within the wetter areas of the site. The site is described as in unfavourable condition but recovering. Inappropriate water levels are not described as a reason for unfavourable condition. The Cowden Pound Pastures SSSI is another area of unimproved neutral grassland and is one of few surviving locations for this habitat in the High Weald. Polebrook Farm is a small area of unimproved species rich grassland near to Reservoir A. It is described as being in unfavourable condition and recovering. No reason is attributed for its condition. A further small group of alluvial meadows in the valley of the River Eden is the Lingfield Cernes SSSI Titsey Woods SSSI is designated primarily as an example of wet semi-natural woodland on the Gault Clay, which has a limited outcrop in Surrey. To the north the site become progressively damper with a subsequent increase in the number of sedges, including pendulous sedge (Carex pendula) and the locally-distributed thin-spiked wood sedge Carex strigosa. Herb paris (Paris quadrifolia) also occurs in the damp areas, while the rare ivyleaved water crowfoot Ranunculus hederaceus is also found on some of the wet areas of Titsey Woods. Reasons for unfavourable condition within the SSSI include forestry and woodland management and the rearing of game rather than water resources Blindley Heath SSSI is the best known example of relict damp grassland on Weald Clay in Surrey. The grassland supports a rich flora of typical Wealden plants, some of which now have a restricted distribution in Surrey. Several ponds and a stretch of the Ray Brook contribute further to the sites interest. Blindley Heath has not been subject to intensive agricultural use in recent years and the poorly drained Weald clays have a grassland flora which is dominated by tussock grass. The ponds show a clear zonation of plant communities reflecting the changes in water depth. The submerged aquatic flora includes water-starworts and pondweeds, whilst the flora of the water surface includes a plant which is uncommon in Surrey, greater duckweed Lemna polyrhiza. The Ray Brook is lined by mature crack willow and has bankside communities of branched burreed and reed canary-grass. Blindley Heath is considered to be recovering to favourable condition through management by scrub removal and grazing Hedgecourt SSSI is the most important wetland site remaining in south-east Surrey. Situated in the upper Eden Valley on alluvial soils overlying Tunbridge Wells sandstones, the site incorporates a range of habitats including woodland, grassland and fen-margined open water. Hedgecourt Lake itself is an ancient mill pond resulting from the damming of the river. These habitats support a wide variety of animal life including several locally distributed beetles and a large breeding-bird fauna. Sympathetic management of water levels throughout the year is important for several of the interest features of Hedgecourt SSSI. However, it is considered to be in favourable condition requiring ongoing management to maintain this status Godstone Ponds SSSI embraces a range of wetland habitats including good examples of a nationally uncommon woodland type (base-rich springline alder wood) and three ponds. There is a great deal of local variation in geology and hydrology within the site; consequently several plants which are uncommon in Surrey occur. The site supports a rich community of breeding birds and has a rich invertebrate fauna. A large proportion of the site is considered to be in unfavourable condition. Natural England attributes the condition assessment to a number of reasons including siltation, water pollution, and inappropriate management The SESW supply area has a number of Local Nature Reserves (LNR), one of the most recent to be designated being the River Mole LNR. This includes stretches of the river corridor through Leatherhead and is one of very few riverine LNRs in the country. The Mole valley also contains over 130 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI). Approximately half of these have wetland features that include ponds and lakes, streams, wet woodland and marshy grassland. A high proportion of the ponds support populations of great crested newt, which are an important resource in addition to those found on the statutory conservation sites. Some of the ponds support fringed water-lily which is rare in Surrey and one has white waterlily which is rare in Surrey and only occasional in West Sussex. Another species of interest in 41

43 the county is greater dodder, a nationally scarce plant that is parasitic on stinging nettles. It is locally common along the banks of the River Mole. Biodiversity Action Plans The UK BAP was published by the government as a result of the Earth Summit and in particular the Convention on Biological Diversity in Rio, in It lists priority habitats and species that are rare or declining in the UK. Each habitat or species has an individual action plan to set out objectives, targets and specific actions to be carried out by particular organisations, within a particular timeframe. The SESW supply area supports some aquatic priority habitats and species listed under the UK BAP, many of which are afforded protection under the Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), The following are selected UK BAP priority habitats and species that are potentially vulnerable to changes in water levels and river flows found within and around the study area: Species: Habitats: Otter Lutra lutra Water Vole Arvicola terrestris White-clawed Crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes Great Crested Newt Triturus cristatus Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus Depressed River Mussel Pseudanodonta complanata Grazing Marsh and other grassland types Reedbed Various types of deciduous woodland Lowland heathland Fen A map of BAP priority habitats is provided in Appendix E. Fisheries Under the European Freshwater Fisheries Directive (78/659/EEC), river reaches and catchments are designated as suitable for supporting salmonid or cyprinid fish in terms of water quality. The rivers Eden, Mole, Hogsmill, Wandle and Beverley Brook and their tributaries support cyprinid fish populations of varied quality. Species include chub, roach, dace, bream, tench, barbel, carp, perch, pike, eels, and brook lamprey. Game fisheries in these rivers are restricted by barriers to fish migration; hence the only native salmonid species represented are brown trout. The reaches designated as cyprinid fisheries under the Fresh Water Fisheries Directive are summarised in Table 4.6. None of the rivers in the Sutton and East Surrey Water supply area are designated as salmonid fisheries under the Directive. 42

44 Table 4.6 Cyprinid fisheries designated under the Freshwater Fisheries Directive River Reach NGR Eden Edenbridge to Confluence with Medway TQ TQ Mole River Lane, Leatherhead to Downside Mill Stream TQ TQ Mole Downside Mill Stream to Thames TQ TQ Wandle Confluence of Two Arms to Beddington sewage treatment works TQ TQ Wandle (Beddington) Waddon Pond to Wandle TQ TQ Wandle (Carshalton) Source to Wandle TQ TQ Soil, Geology & Contaminated Land The Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) provides a method for assessing the quality of farmland to enable informed choices to be made about its future use within the planning system. It helps underpin the principles of sustainable development. The ALC system classifies land into five grades, with Grade 3 subdivided into Sub grades 3a and 3b. The best and most versatile land is defined as Grades 1, 2 and 3a by policy guidance (see PPG7). This is the land which is most flexible, productive and efficient in response to inputs and which can best deliver future crops for food and non food uses such as biomass, fibres and pharmaceuticals. Current estimates are that Grades 1 and 2 together form about 21% of all farmland in England; Sub grade 3a contains a similar amount The Classification is based on the long term physical limitations of land for agricultural use. Factors affecting the grade are climate, site and soil characteristics, and the important interactions between them. Climate: temperature and rainfall; aspect, exposure and frost risk. Site: gradient, micro-relief and flood risk. Soil: texture, structure, depth and stoniness; chemical properties which cannot be corrected The combination of climate and soil factors determines soil wetness and droughtiness. Wetness and droughtiness influence the choice of crops grown and the level and consistency of yields, as well as use of land for grazing livestock. The Classification is concerned with the inherent potential of land under a range of farming systems. The current agricultural use, or intensity of use, does not affect the ALC grade The ALC Grade classifications are as follows: Grade 1 (excellent) Grade 2 (very good) Grade 3: 3a (good) 3b (moderate) Grade 4 (poor) Grade 5 (very poor) 43

45 The ALC system is used by Defra and others to give advice to local planning authorities, developers and the public if development is proposed on agricultural land or other greenfield sites that could grow crops. The General Development (Procedure) Order refers to the best and most versatile land policy in requiring statutory consultations with Defra A map query on the MAGIC website shows that the study area is predominantly rural. Outside of the urban settlements and areas of non-agricultural land, agricultural land is a mix of Grade 3 and 4. The data available does not distinguish between Grade 3a and 3b. This is shown graphically in Appendix E. Geology The study area is rich in minerals containing a variety of sands and gravels as well as chalk, ragstone, clays and brick-earth. The solid geology of the study area is predominately weald clay with other large areas of London clay, upper chalk and Tunbridge Wells sand As areas within the study area are undeveloped, there is a need to balance the demand for minerals with the protection of the areas distinctive natural features. There is also a need to balance the benefits of mineral extraction with the well-being and amenity of nearby communities The diversity of the landscape reflects the varied geology, which although is difficult to observe, has clearly influenced both the landforms and its habitats. There are a number of SSSIs in the study area that are notified for earth heritage. These are: Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SSSI The Mole Gap is one of the classic geomorphological localities of South East England, long noted for its variety of landforms which include periglacial debris fans, river cliffs and swallow holes. The fans of the Mole Gap are the largest on the Chalk, and Cowslip Bank provides rare sections in Devensian deposits of this type. River cliffs are particularly well-developed where the fans have deflected the River Mole against the valley sides, especially at the Whites - the most imposing river cliffs in the Chalk and a landform landmark of southern England. Natural England s 2008 condition assessment of the Earth Heritage units in the SSSI is favourable. The river cliffs are still evident and although they are partially vegetated, active geomorphological processes are still occurring. It is considered that the natural erosion rate increases with increased river flow. Auclaye SSSI This site yields well preserved bodies and wings of insects of Lower Cretaceous age. The Weald Clay here contains concentrations with remains attributable to several insect orders, including the Odonata, Orthoptera, Blattoidea, Neuroptera, Trichoptera, Diptera, Coleoptera, and Hymenoptera. The site has produced a new Gryllid (Orthoptera), important because records of crickets in the Lower Cretaceous are very few, and a new aculeate hymenopteran. It is a locality of importance in studies of Mesozoic insect faunas. Natural England s 2008 condition assessment of this unit is unfavourable and declining due to encroachment of vegetation obscuring the feature. Clock House Brickworks SSSI This brick pit shows beds in the lower part of the Weald Clay Group, stratigraphically above the strata seen at the GCR SIL at Warnham. Like Warnham, it is one of the most important exposures of Weald Clay. Multidisciplinary evidence on the palaeoenvironments may be seen here, including: warm temperate/subtropical subaerial (plant fragments; insect fauna, including termites and cicadas; land-reptile bones); freshwater (aquatic plants, including upstanding Lycopodites; also aquatic animals including Cypridea, Unio, large Viviparus, fish, and aquatic reptiles); brackish (non-cypridean ostracods, Filosina, Ophiomorpha burrows). 44

46 Analysis of preserved aragonite shells gives C-isotope support for salinity interpretations. The insects are highly important and the site has yielded several thousand insect remains, belonging to some eleven orders. The fauna includes the earliest described social insect, a termite. The fossils occur primarily in discarded siltstone concretions, the structure of which indicates that many of them represent lithified scour fills. Sedimentary structures in the Clock House Sand Member (BGS Bed 3) record a decreasing flow regime, ending in sub aerial exposure. Its extra-basinal detritus is different from that at Warnham, being almost entirely Cornubian in origin (high K-feldspar, tourmaline, microcline and kyanite, etc). This is an outstanding site with great potential for palaeontological and sedimentological research. This site is considered to be in favourable condition. Turners Hill SSSI Turners Hill lies to the south of the study area between Crawley and East Grinstead. A disused quarry exposes the Ardingly Sandstone Member of the upper Lower Tunbridge Wells Formation (upper Hastings Beds Group), Wealden Series. The near vertical plane-cut walls and floor of this site provide excellent three dimensional sections through the sandstone. These sections display trough cross-bedding (also known as festoon bedding) with crossbedded units up to 1m across and 30cm deep as well as large scale ripples known as megaripples. Although this facies is common in the proximal (northern) area of the Ardingly Sandstone Member it is rarely seen to such advantage. The three dimensional display of these structures has provided detailed evidence of depositional parameters including flow direction and strength. This evidence has been important in constructing the overall palaeoenvironmental picture of the complex Ardingly Sandstone Member which has been interpreted as an alluvial braid plain with distributary channels. Natural England s 2008 condition assessment of this unit is unfavourable due to obstruction of the feature by vegetation. Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites (RIGS) were established in 1990 by the Nature Conservancy Council (NCC) and continue to be actively supported by the UK statutory conservation agencies. RIGS are important sites which underpin and complement the SSSI coverage. RIGS are selected by voluntary local RIGS groups, which are generally formed by county or by unitary authority area in England. There are now more than 50 local RIGS groups in the UK. UKRIGS is an association of RIGS groups, overseeing the RIGS scheme on a national basis. Some former RIGS groups now use the term "geology trusts" under an umbrella organisation called the Geology Trusts RIGS are selected on a local or regional basis according to the following nationally agreed criteria: the value of a site for educational purposes in life-long learning; the value of a site for study by both amateur and professional Earth scientists; the historical value of a site from an Earth science perspective; and the aesthetic value of a site from an Earth science perspective RIGS do not have formal statutory protection in the same way as SSSIs. However, the RIGS groups notify the local planning authorities of the RIGS which have been declared in their area and encourage the local authority to protect the RIGS through the planning process. For example, RIGS can be listed on local authorities' development plans No spatial data on RIGS has been obtained through this study at this stage since the data is not easily obtainable from geology trusts or local authorities. 45

47 Water The Water Framework Directive The Water Framework Directive is a European Union Directive designed to protect and improve the environmental condition of all waters, including rivers, lakes, groundwater, estuaries and coastal waters to 1 nautical mile. It also encourages the water environment to be managed in a consistent way throughout the European Union. The Water Framework Directive is implemented through river basin planning, which involves setting environmental objectives for all groundwater and surface water bodies (including estuaries and coastal waters) within a river basin district, and then devising a programme of measures to meet those objectives The Environment Agency is the competent authority tasked with monitoring and achieving the Water Framework Directive objectives. The Environment Agency monitor waterbodies by carrying out risk assessments. Table 4.7 shows the assessments carried out for different waterbody types by risk category. There are too numerous rivers, lakes and groundwaters in the study area to present the risk assessments for each of them. Instead the significant water management issues set out by the relevant river basin plans should be referred to. Table 4.7 Water Framework Directive risk assessment categories for different waterbody types Risk Category Point source pollution Diffuse source pollution Water abstraction and flow regulation Physical or morphological alteration Rivers Lakes Transitional Waters Coastal Waters Alien species Ground waters The Environment Agency is responsible for the delivery of river basin plans in England. The study lies within both the Thames River Basin District and the South East River Basin District. As part of the river basin planning for the River Basin Districts, the Environment Agency has identified what are believed to be the significant water management issues in summary documents that are currently available for public consultation (Ref 7) The significant water management issues identified by the Environment Agency in the Thames and South East River Basin Districts include: Flow problems: low flow and depleted groundwater due to abstraction. Abstraction and other artificial flow pressures; organic pollution; physical modification (rivers or lakes); physical modification (estuaries or coastal waters); sediment; recreation. Physical modification: the impact of physical modification. Abstraction and other artificial flow pressures; physical modification (rivers or lakes); physical modification (estuaries or coastal waters); other pollutants: metals; sediment. Diffuse pollution: rural: impact of changing agricultural and land management practices on the water environment. Abstraction and other artificial flow pressures; organic pollution; phosphorus; physical modification (rivers or lakes); physical 46

48 modification (estuaries or coastal waters); nitrates; other pollutants: metals; sediment; priority and priority hazardous substances; pesticides. Urban development: how future development can assist in achieving the Water Framework Directive objectives. Abstraction and other artificial flow pressures; organic pollution; phosphorus; urban and transport pollution; physical modification (rivers or lakes); physical modification (estuaries or coastal waters); nitrates; other pollutants: metals; sediment; priority and priority hazardous substances; pesticides; recreation. Diffuse pollution: urban and transport: the impact of urban run-off (including flood risk management). Organic pollution; phosphorus; urban and transport pollution; nitrates; other pollutants: metals; sediment; priority and priority hazardous substances; pesticides. Alien species: impact of aquatic alien species on ecosystem health. Abstraction and other artificial flow pressures; alien species; recreation. Point source pollution: Impact of point source discharges. Organic pollution; phosphorus; urban and transport pollution; nitrates; other pollutants: metals; sediment; priority and priority hazardous substances; pesticides. Surface Water Quality Surface water quality is monitored by the Environment Agency, as part of the national General Quality Assessment (GQA) Monitoring Programme. The GQA scheme considers chemistry and biological water quality. Each GQA aspect is based on six water quality grades ranging from Class A (water of very good quality) to Class E (poor quality). A full breakdown of GQA scoring is provided in Appendix D Biological water quality is considered a good indicator of the condition of the aquatic environment. This shows that water quality within the catchment is generally satisfactory, but ranges from very good to poor. Low classifications are most often due to the impact of sewage effluents on small streams, which have low flows and dilute irregularly. In addition pollutants from agricultural runoff (diffuse pollution) and consented discharges from urban areas can be washed into rivers or leached into groundwater with potential impacts on fish and wildlife The two main rivers in the study area are the Rivers Eden and Mole. Also of interest are the smaller watercourses; the River Wandle, Beverly Brook and River Hogsmill The average biological grade in 2006 was B (good) in the River Eden, despite receiving water from predominately poor quality tributaries. The chemical grade of the River Eden was graded as A (very good) in the assessment period between 2004 and Lower biological quality is recorded immediately downstream of discharges from STW The average chemical quality of watercourses in the Mole catchment has improved substantially since The chemical grade ranged between C and D, with majority of rivers assessed as Grade C (fairly good) in the assessment period between 2004 and Water quality in the rivers Hogsmill, Wandle and Beverley Brook is generally good in the upper reaches and deteriorates in the lower more urbanised catchments due to poor quality and contaminated run-off. This is considered to be a limiting factor in the growth of course fish populations in the lower reaches of these rivers GQA biology monitoring has consistently shown that water bodies are good or very good. Having said this, this, in part reflects the wider parameters of the WFD as compared with the GQA classification system. It also reflects the fact that pressures in a surrounding catchment may cause deterioration in a high quality water body if no risk management measures are applied. 47

49 Groundwater Quality The protection of groundwater is vital to ensure these sources do not become contaminated. The vulnerability of groundwater is prioritised by the Environment Agency in terms of Source Protection Zones (SPZs). These zones provide an indication of the risk to groundwater supplies that may result from potentially polluting activities or the accidental release of pollutants. These zones are based on the travel times of pollutants and the furthest extent that the source draws water from. SPZ I indicates those areas most vulnerable to pollution, whilst SPZ III indicates those areas of least vulnerability. Throughout England, nitrate levels of surface and groundwater are increasing. This is a concern, as the nitrate has to be removed before water can be supplied to customers and it can harm the environment. Groundwater sources that are vulnerable to nitrate are termed Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVZs). Farmers within a NVZ area have to follow DEFRA guidelines to ensure nitrate leachate is within set levels. The extent of NVZs in the Sutton and East Surrey Water WRZ is mapped in Appendix E Nitrogen Sensitive Areas (NSA) are carefully selected areas covering groundwater sources used to supply drinking water. In these areas, incentives were offered to farmers to undertake significant changes in agricultural practices to reduce nitrate leaching, thereby helping stabilise or reduce nitrate levels. There are 32 NSAs in England, none of which are within or near to the study area. Water availability Rainfall Rainfall is variable across the study area. Both the River Eden and Mole catchment areas receive an average of approximately mm per annum. Levels of rainfall are greater in higher parts of the area such as on the high ridges of the Chalk and Greensand outcrops around Dorking and the higher parts of the Mole catchment around Crawley. The North Downs escarpment in the Medway catchment forms a barrier to the prevailing rain bearing winds. Therefore the majority of the catchment to the north is in the rain shadow of the escarpment and therefore gets less rainfall. Average annual rainfall over the South London area encompassing the rivers Hogsmill, Wandle and Beverley Brook is approximately 690mm. The whole of the Sutton and East Surrey Water supply area is drier than the national average rainfall which is 897mm. Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) are six-year plans written by the Environment Agency (with stakeholder consultation), detailing how water resources within defined catchment areas are to be managed. Each CAMS area is split into Water Resource Management Units (WRMUs), and Groundwater Management Units (GWMUs). WRMUs are areas that have similar groundwater and/or surface water characteristics and are managed in a similar way. GWMUs are areas of aquifer delineated for the purpose of assessment. The CAMS provides an assessment of water availability in each of these units. Based on this assessment the CAMS documents outline the Environment Agency s strategy for abstraction licensing appropriate to each WRMU and an overall assessment of water availability within the catchment. A summary of the CAMS water resource assessments within the study area are presented in this section There are two main catchments of direct interest for the study area; the River Medway Catchment and the Mole Catchment. Water availability is also considered for the catchments of the River Wandle, Beverley Brook and River Hogsmill. The CAMS documents reviewed therefore include: The Medway CAMS Final Strategy April 2005; The Mole CAMS Final Strategy June 2007; and 48

50 The London CAMS Final Strategy April Resource availability categories used in the CAMS documents are defined in Table 4.8. Table 4.8 Water resource availability categories defined within CAMS documents Indicative resource availability status Water available No water available Definition Water likely to be available at all flows including low flows, although some restrictions may apply. No water available for further licensing at low flows although water may be available at higher flows with appropriate restrictions. Over-licensed Over-abstracted Current actual abstraction is resulting in no water available at low flows. If existing licences were used to their full allocation, they would have the potential to cause unacceptable environmental impact at low flows. Water may be available at high flows with appropriate restrictions. Existing abstraction is causing unacceptable environmental impact at low flows. Water may still be available at high flows with appropriate restrictions. Medway catchment The River Medway and its main tributaries the Rivers Beult, Bourne, Teise and Eden have been studied as part of the Medway CAMS. These watercourses support a diverse range of habitats and abstractions for agriculture, industry and public water supply. Only the River Eden is within the SESW supply zone The River Eden receives spring flow from water sourced within the Hastings Beds aquifer. Reservoir A is a pumped storage winter fill reservoir owned and managed by SESW. It has a seasonal compensation flow of not less than 0.32 Ml/d between 30th April and 1st November and 0.14 Ml/d for the remaining period. The compensation flows are small due to the naturally small catchment upstream of the dam. Reservoir A is filled mainly through abstraction from the River Eden between during the autumn and winter months between September and April. Approximately 30% of the Sutton and East Surrey supply zone falls within the Medway catchment so there is some effluent return of water into the River Eden. In combination with the compensation flow there is a net benefit to the river during summer months Table 4.9 and Table 4.10 indicate the status of water resource availability in the WRMUs and GWMUs identified in the Medway Catchment CAMS. 49

51 Table 4.9 Surface water resource availability status in the Medway catchment Water Resource Managem ent Unit (WRMU) River Eden Assessment Point (AP) Penshurst Summary description There are a large number of surface water abstractions upstream of the assessment point, including abstraction for Reservoir A. Resource Availability Status Over licensed at low flows Table 4.10 Groundwater resource availability status in the Medway catchment Groundwater Resource Management Unit (GRMU) Hastings Bed Summary description There are a large number of rivers and streams draining this unit, however it is not possible to determine those that naturally receive summer baseflow. It is considered that any abstraction at rates necessary for viable public water supply will adversely affect the flow regime of the headwater streams draining the outcrop of the Hastings Beds. There is a general presumption against licensing further increases in direct abstraction. Resource Availability Status No water available at low flows Mole Catchment The River Mole rises on the Weald Clay and from small springs on the north facing slopes of the Hastings Beds around Rusper. The river flows 80km in a general northerly direction from Rusper, to its confluence with the River Thames at Molesey. As the Mole flows over the Weald Clay, it is fed by a network of tributaries, including Ifield Brook, Tilgate Brook, Gatwick Stream, Burstow Stream, Redhill Brook, Salfords Stream, Leigh Brook, Tanners Brook, Pipp Brook and Deanoak Brook The Mole catchment straddles part of the two main geological units present in South East England the Wealden Anticline in the south and the London Basin to the north. The upper catchment is formed of highly faulted sandstone, silts and clays. The lower catchment includes younger deposits of chalk, sands, silts, gravels and clays. In the upper catchment, the majority of effective rainfall runs off the impermeable clays and into the river system. The river flows gently northwards over the northern limb of the Wealden anticline, over Weald Clay to just south east of Dorking. Here it crosses the hills formed by the east west outcrop of the Lower Greensand. It then flows over narrow bands of Gault Clay and Upper Greensand, and onto the Chalk at the southern end of the Mole Gap in the North Downs. Between Dorking and Leatherhead the Mole flows northward across the Chalk. In this area the river is connected to the underlying aquifer by swallow holes. These extend northwards as far as Mickleham. In times of dry weather this can lead to water loss from the river to the groundwater, occasionally causing the river to dry up completely. The water flows underground within the Chalk to emerge as powerful springs in the riverbed just south of Leatherhead. This input and another Chalk spring input at Fetcham form the only major aquifer inputs of groundwater into the River Mole. These aquifer inputs help maintain the flow north of Leatherhead during dry weather. As the river flows north from Leatherhead it passes 50

52 over areas of tertiary strata the London Clay and Bagshot Beds before reaching the River Thames at Molesey There are currently 44 abstraction licences in the Mole catchment, licensed to abstract over 96Ml/d. Groundwater abstraction accounts for 68 per cent of all licensed abstractions. The majority of groundwater abstraction is from the Chalk aquifer. The needs of public water supply accounts for 82 per cent of licensed water abstracted in the Mole catchment. All abstraction for public water supply is from groundwater sources in the Chalk. The rural nature of the catchment has led to the development of many abstractions for agricultural purposes. Many of these abstractions are for crop irrigation, and in some cases abstraction is limited to the summer growing season. In areas where summer resources are fully committed, some farmers and other water users have developed storage facilities, such as reservoirs, to enable water to be abstracted in the winter period and stored for subsequent summer use. Golf course irrigation also accounts for a significant volume of the water licensed for abstraction in the catchment. Abstractions are also licensed for a variety of industrial uses, mainly located in the urban areas of Leatherhead, Dorking, Molesey and Horley. Most of these are from surface water sources. Industrial uses include manufacturing processes and mineral extraction with the majority of the water being returned to wet pits or watercourses via settlement lagoons There are over 750 consented discharges in the Mole CAMS area, the majority of which (over 400) are for small volumes of treated sewage from domestic properties. Thames Water Utilities Limited has 29 consents for 15 Sewage Treatment Works (STWs) in the catchment. The six largest STW discharges make up approximately 90 per cent of the consented effluent volume in the catchment. Integration with the Thames Corridor CAMS The Mole catchment is part of the larger River Thames catchment. Because of this, river flows in the Mole are likely to have an effect on river flows in the River Thames. In order to prevent the over-abstracted reaches of the Thames worsening, water abstracted within tributary CAMS such as the Mole, must consider the requirements of that water for the River Thames The Environment Agency set out that all tributary CAMS with WRMU s of an integrated status of water available upstream of Teddington have been overridden to a status of no water available. This is to reflect the contribution of flows from the tributaries to the River Thames and more accurately shows the influence of the Thames hands-off flow (HOF) of Q The Q50, and associated no water available resource availability status, means that water will not be available for licensing at low flows but will be available at high flows. New consumptive licenses in the Mole CAMS area will have the Thames derived HOF applied to them and a local HOF as a condition of the licence. This effectively means that in a normal year, further summer abstraction is unlikely, but winter abstraction will be permitted In the case of groundwater abstractions in the Mole catchment, if in direct hydraulic continuity with a nearby watercourse, the Thames derived HOF will be applied as a condition of any licence. Licences not in direct hydraulic continuity are likely to have some form of restriction on season or level to reflect the no water available status Table 4.6 indicates the status of water resource availability in the WRMUs identified in the Mole CAMS and states where this status has been overridden by the Thames Corridor HOF. 51

53 Table 4.11 Integrated surface and ground water resource availability status in the Mole Catchment Water Resource Management Unit (WRMU) Lower Mole and Mole Gap Middle Mole and Upper Mole Redhill Brook and Salfords Stream Confined Chalk and Confined Lower Greensand Unconfined Chalk Summary description All rivers within the catchment flow through this unit. The unit includes 25 licensed abstractions and significant discharges from the large sewage treatment works at Leatherhead and Esher. Only surface water is assessed. Contains surface water units Middle and Upper Mole and also contains the unconfined Lower Greensand band from Dorking to Redhill. The Middle and Upper Mole drain the urbanised areas of Crawley, Dorking and Horley. In the summer approximately 74 per cent of flow is effluent with seven sewage treatment works, the largest of which are in Crawley, Dorking and Horley. Redhill Brook rises near Warwick Wold and meets the Salfords Stream just south of Redhill Aerodrome. There are two surface water abstractions and three sewage treatment works in the WRMU. Only surface water is assessed. This unit comprises groundwater resources only. Abstraction from the groundwater does not affect surface water flows. Groundwater flow is generally to the north. There are six abstractions from this unit. The Chalk is the most significant aquifer in the catchment and across southern England, both as a source of supply and for storage capacity. It outcrops across the middle of the catchment towards the North Downs, dipping northwards under an increasing thickness of London Clay. The Lower Greensand outcrops as an east-western strip between the North Downs and the weald Clay to the south. Abstraction from this unit impacts on surface water flows in the Mole near Leatherhead. Groundwater flow is generally towards the north and also drawn towards the river in the central area alongside the Mole. Resource Availability Status Water Available overridden to no water available Water Available overridden to no water available Water Available overridden to no water available Water available Over licensed The London Catchment The London CAMS considers the water resources in a number of tributaries that join the River Thames between Kingston and Enrith. The main rivers include the Brent, the Crane and Lower Lee in the north and Hogsmill, Beverley Brook Wandle and Ravensbourne in the south. Since it is not hydraulically connected to the Sutton and East Surrey Water WRZ the North London catchment will not be considered further in this report In the upper reaches of the South London catchment much of the rainfall drains slowly downwards through the soil and recharges the Chalk groundwater resource. The Chalk aquifer releases stored groundwater slowly to the streams that flow over it, providing a relatively constant stream flow throughout the year. In the top of their catchments the 52

54 Hogsmill and Wandle are dependent on water from the Chalk. In contrast, the catchment of the Beverley Brook is underlain by London Clay and, as such, flows are variable as it is determined by surface run-off. The lower catchments of the Hogsmill and Wandle are also underlain by the clay and run-off is further intensified where the extent of urbanisation increases nearer to the Thames corridor Groundwater flow in the Confined Chalk is generally drawn towards the central part of the London area. This part of the chalk aquifer has been historically over abstracted, causing groundwater levels to be very low in some areas The Hogsmill is the only river to flow into the Thames upstream of the tidal limit. Water availability and licensing policy for the Hogsmill therefore has regard to the effects on the Thames The Company also operates two existing flow compensation schemes in the London catchment. The Company maintains a minimum flow of 4.55Ml/d to the River Wandle at Carshalton Ponds to support abstraction from its chalk production boreholes within the catchment. Similarly, the Company maintains a minimum flow of 0.50Ml/d to the Hogsmill at Bourne Hall Ponds to support abstraction from its chalk production boreholes within the catchment. Table 4.12 Integrated surface and ground water resource availability status in the London catchment Water Resource Management Unit (WRMU) Wandle and Ravensbourne Beverley Brook and Crane Hogsmill Summary description The Ravensbourne and Wandle rise from the unconfined chalk of the North Downs. River levels rise quickly following rainfall due to urbanisation and the clay in the lower catchment. The existing abstractions are considered sustainable as the environment is not being compromised. The Beverley Brook rises between Stoneleigh and Sutton and flows north towards the Thames. The Brent rises in the hills of Stanmore and Barnet and the Crane rises in West Harrow. All three run over clay geology and are subsequently flashy. The existing abstractions are considered sustainable as the environment is not being compromised. This unit comprises the River Hogsmill and the Unconfined Chalk. The Hogsmill rises from the chalk of the North Downs. However the majority of the river runs over clay geology in a largely urban catchment and responds rapidly to rainfall. The existing abstractions are considered sustainable as the environment is not being compromised. No further groundwater resources are considered to be available from this WRMU. Resource Availability Status No water available Water available No water available Flood risk Planning Policy Statement 25: Development and Flood Risk (PPS25) aims to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate 53

55 development in areas at risk of flooding and to direct development away from areas of high risk. Where new development is, exceptionally, necessary in such areas, the policy aims to make it safe, without increasing flood risk elsewhere, and, where possible, reducing flood risk overall. PPS25 also sets out that in identifying flood risk the predicted effects of climate change should be accounted for. The Environment Agency has statutory powers under the Water Resources Act 1991 to manage flood risk to existing properties and assets and have permissive powers to maintain and improve main rivers in order to ensure the efficient passage of flood flow and to manage water levels. The Environment Agency targets its flood risk management works via strategic planning documents that set out policy from the catchment to local level. Information about flood risk in the WRMP area has been obtained by a review of the following documents: The Thames Region Catchment Flood Management Plan, Environment Agency, 2007; The River Mole Flood Risk Management Strategy Study, Environment Agency, 2006; and The Medway Catchment Flood Management Plan, Environment Agency, The study area does not include any coastline and therefore coastal flood risk and coastal defence strategy has not been included within the scope of the SEA. The Thames Region The majority of the main rivers across the Environment Agency s Thames Region are in a natural or semi-natural state. They are generally unconstrained, running in an earth channel through relatively flat and undefended rural flood plains. In urban areas some rivers have been modified (usually by straightening or artificial lining of the banks) to carry the flow more efficiently. A degree of flood protection is provided by the capacity of the river channels and the natural storage within the flood plains. There is a risk of flooding throughout the region, but the greatest number of people and properties at risk are towards the east in London and the lower parts of the Thames. In the fluvial flood plain in Thames Region (where there is a 1 per cent chance of flooding in any year) there are approximately 215,000 properties at risk. The River Mole Approximately 2,500 properties are at risk during a 1 in 100 year flood event in the River Mole catchment. Existing standards of protection across the catchment are generally 1 in 20 years or less, except for the downstream end of the catchment which was the subject to the Lower Mole Flood Alleviation Scheme in the 1970s which provided a 1 in 200 year standard. There is intense political and economic pressure on Local Authorities to permit more development in the strategy area. However, this is constrained by the preservation of greenbelt and the policies set out in PPG25. There are no economically viable flood alleviation schemes proposed by the strategy. However, the strategy identifies several key areas where potential development in the flood plain must be constrained to provide natural flood storage and conveyance. The Medway Catchment In the Medway catchment, there are approximately 620 businesses and residential properties at risk from a flood event with a 1% annual probability (1 in 100 years). This includes 500 people who are classed as Vulnerable. Property damages for this event are estimated to be approximately 50 million, and agricultural damages approximately 1.7 million. Property flooding mainly arises from out of banks flows from rivers, but there are other sources of flooding. These include groundwater flooding, surcharging of sewerage systems and other infrastructure failures, and exceedance of the capacity of agricultural drainage systems. Increases in flood flows from predicted climate changes are expected to raise damages by up to 160% by 2050; this large increase is due to the high number of properties which are 54

56 situated at the current edge of the floodplain. Cumulative changes in land use may also have a moderate effect on flooding. Air The Air Quality Strategy (AQS) 2000 for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland outlines the Government s policies in relation to delivering cleaner air within the UK. If one or more of the AQS objectives are unlikely to be achieved, local authorities must declare an Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs). In addition, the local authority must develop action plans which set out how they intend to improve the air quality Within the study area there are 17 local authorities that have declared AQMAs and produced draft or final Air Quality Action Plans. These plans have investigated options to reduce emissions and more often they relate to Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) and Particulate Matter (PM10). The primary sources for these are from road transport. Climatic Factors South East England currently enjoys a relatively mild and uniform climate, with no extreme variables in temperature or precipitation. The area generally receives less than average rainfall, with mm of rainfall per year compared to the national average of 897mm. There are variations within this however, with wetter areas such as the Weald, which receives up to 1000mm per year, and drier areas such as the Sussex coastal strip, which only receives up to 600mm per year. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly throughout the year, although inter and intra annual variability can be significant. Water consumption is generally higher than average, particularly in the eastern region, where consumption per head is nearly 9% higher than the national average The UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) has published climate change scenarios for the UK. In general terms, summers in the South East are predicted to become hotter and drier, while winters become warmer and wetter. Under high emissions scenarios, headline figures for the 2080s are as follows: Summers will be hotter by 2 6o C; and have 20 60% less rainfall; Winters will be warmer by o C and have 10 30% more rainfall; and It could be warm enough for extra days of plant growth per year (currently about 250 days / year) There are also predicted to be more extreme climate events, including more storms, increased flooding and longer and more intense droughts Most parts of England and Wales experienced a prolonged period of below average rainfall that began in the winter of 2004 and continued through the spring and summers of 2005 and This was most pronounced in southern England, and resulted in a full hosepipe ban in the southern region. Material Assets Infrastructure and transport The major urban areas within the SESW supply area include Leatherhead, Dorking, Sutton, Reigate, Redhill, Crawley, South Croydon, and East Grinstead. There is an extensive transport network connecting the area, including the M25 and M23 motorways and the major routes of the A25, A24, A23 and A22. Most of the railway network connects the South Coast to London and Gatwick Airport, and includes the Gatwick Express service from London Victoria. 55

57 Use of Natural Resources and Energy Consumption No environmental baseline information has been sought on the use of natural resources and energy consumption. Waste Landfill is increasingly viewed as a waste of resource, is unsustainable and has the potential to harm the environment. Since the introduction of the Landfill Tax in 1996 and improved pollution prevention regimes, there has been an increase in disposal costs thus making landfill a less attractive disposal option There are numerous active landfill sites within the study area. This highlights the fact that the majority of existing waste management capacity within the study area is landfill, which is expected to decline over time as sites are filled. Existing recycling, composting and energy from waste facilities provide only a small proportion of overall capacity at the present time. Increasing the amount of waste diverted from landfill to recovery will require rapid and largescale provision of additional recovery facilities Within the study area, there are currently significant inter-regional movements of waste including imports from London, but also exports to neighbouring regions. For example, exports of municipal waste from Kent to landfill in the East of England and large quantities of commercial and industrial waste from Hampshire and Kent and Surrey It is estimated that just over 70% of Kent s municipal waste is sent to landfill, with the remaining 30% being either recycled or composted. It has been predicted that on average the amount of municipal waste will increase by 2.5% each year. Municipal waste currently contributes towards 40% of the total waste within West Sussex It is likely that at the current rates of filling, the total capacity at landfill sites within the study area will be exhausted in the near future. Opportunities for major new landfill are likely to decline, as a result of the scarcity of suitable voids. In addition, the introduction and subsequent implementation of the EU Directive on landfill requires progressive reductions in the amount of waste going to landfill. This change in the approach to waste highlights the need to shift away from landfill, which wastes valuable resources, towards processes which reuse and recover materials. Cultural, architectural and archaeological heritage Listed buildings A statutory listed building is a building, object or structure that has been judged to be of national historical or architectural interest. Listing protects that building against unauthorised demolition, alteration or extension and ensures that its special interest is taken into account when proposals are put forward which affect its character or appearance. Decisions as to which buildings are listed are taken by the Secretary of State for Culture Media and Sport, who is required by the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 to compile a list of buildings of special architectural or historic interest. A summary of listed buildings in the study area is provided in Table Conservation Areas Conservation Areas are defined in section 69 of the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as an area of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. Conservation areas are often centred on listed buildings or groups of buildings, but other features of merit include open spaces, trees, historic street patterns, or features of historic or archaeological interest. The number of conservation areas per local authority is summarised in Table

58 Scheduled Ancient Monuments Scheduled Ancient Monuments (SAMs) are statutory designated archaeological remains which are considered to be of national importance. As is the case for the designated nature conservation sites, the SAMs within the study area are too numerous to list individually. Instead, the locations of SAMs lying close to individual water resource options (and which therefore could present an environmental constraint) are shown listed in Appendix C as a list derived from GIS data. A map of SAMs is provided in Appendix E. The number of SAMs per local authority area derived from Local Plans and local authority websites are also summarised in Table Areas of Archaeological Potential Areas of Archaeological Potential and other terms such as Area of High Archaeological Potential or Urban Archaeological Zone are terms used to identify areas where it is known that buried archaeology is likely to survive. These are primarily created and used in the planning process and are usually identified in Local Plans. Any application for development within them is likely to be referred to the County Archaeologist for comment and advice. This process is in keeping with the Planning Policy Guidelines 16 Archaeology and Planning (PPG 16). The number (or area) of areas of archaeological potential in each Local Authority area is summarised in Table 4.13 Table 4.13 Summary of areas and features of cultural, historic or archaeological importance within Local Authority areas Local Authority Conservation Areas Listed Buildings Scheduled Monuments Areas of archaeological potential Crawley Croydon Elmbridge Epsom & Ewell Merton Mole Valley 28 (398ha) < (420ha) Reigate & Banstead Sevenoaks Sutton 14 > Tandridge 19 <600 > Landscape A map illustrating the Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and Joint Character Areas (JCAs) within the study area can be seen in Appendix E. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty Surrey Hills The Surrey Hills AONB links together a chain of varied upland landscapes including the North Downs, traditionally the day trip destination for southeast London. Rising near Guildford as the narrow Hog s Back, the ridge of the downs stretches away to the Kent border, an unmistakable chalk landscape of swelling hills and beech-wooded combes with a steep scarp 57

59 crest looking south to the Weald. The downs are paralleled to the south by an undulating wooded greensand ridge, rising at Leith Hill to southeast England s highest point (294m). In the west, sandy open heathland, typified by Frensham Common, stretches away to the Hampshire border The AONB s fine deciduous woodlands have considerable ecological importance as do the AONB s surviving stretches of chalk grassland and unimproved heath. Including as it does, showpiece villages such as Shere and Abinger, the AONB s built environment is an intrinsic part of its quality Unlike almost all other AONBs, farming (cereals, mixed and horticulture) is a minority occupier of the land. Increasingly, holdings are bought up by non-farmers and worked parttime or used for paddocks. Being within easy reach of London and skirting major centres such as Guildford, Epsom, Sutton and Reigate, the AONB s economy is inevitably commuter based, with the addition of small-scale craft industry The AONB is hugely popular with visitors. It includes within its borders such famous beauty spots as Box Hill and the Devil s Punch Bowl. Much of the downland crest is owned by conservation bodies including the National Trust and there is a dense, heavily used network of public and recreational footpaths including the Greensand Way and the North Downs Way National Trail which runs from Farnham across the AONB and into Kent. Kent Downs Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) forms the eastern end of a great arc of designated landscape stretching from the East Hampshire and Surrey Hills AONBs. The Kent Downs AONB continues from the Surrey border in a widening ribbon of rolling countryside to meet the sea at the cliffs of Dover. Inland, the Downs rise to over 240m, cresting in a prominent escarpment above the Weald to the south. It is traversed by the three prominent river valleys of the Darent, Medway and Stour The AONB roughly follows the southeast s outcrop of chalk and greensand, the two ridges running parallel with each other to the coast. The chalk ridge, with its characteristic dip slope and dry valleys, has great wildlife importance in its unimproved chalk grassland, scrub communities and broadleaved woodlands. The well-wooded greensand ridge is particularly prominent in the Sevenoaks and Tonbridge and Malling districts and supports heathlands and acidic woodlands Other distinctive landscape elements include the fast disappearing traditional Kentish orchards and hop gardens and the rich wooded foreground of the upland ridges, together with many fine historic parklands including Knole and Winston Churchill s Chartwell. The AONB s ancient settlements include picturesque half-timbered Charing and Chilham on the old Pilgrims Way to Canterbury. Since prehistory, this has been the invasion gateway to England and the North Downs are noted for their archaeological remains and military legacy A prosperous farming area, its high grade land is in intense agricultural and horticultural use. The AONB, bordered by large and expanding urban areas including Ashford, Maidstone and the Medway towns, as well as the ports of Dover and Folkestone, has a large commuter population and the North Downs are a heavily used local recreational resource. The area also receives visitor traffic from London and the Kent resorts, and the AONB forms an integral part of tourist promotion of the Garden of England. The North Downs Way National Trail runs along the length of the escarpment and loops up to Canterbury. High Weald High Weald AONB is the area between the North and South Downs which are the outer chalk rims of the ancient Wealden anticline. The sandstones and clays of the exposed centre of the dome, the High Weald gives rise to a hilly, broken and remote country of ridges and valleys. 58

60 In contrast, open areas of the AONB include Ashdown Forest and, to the east, the river valleys of the Rother, Brede and Tillingham. The AONB meets the coast at Hastings A close patchwork of small fields, hedges and woodland patterns the rolling landscape which is characterised by its distinctive brick, tile and white weatherboard houses, its oast houses and also by the traces of the ancient Wealden iron industry including traditional hammer ponds. The dense forest which gave the Weald its name has largely vanished, but fine ancient broadleaved woodland is still abundant, particularly in the deep ghylls which incise the ridges. The Weald retains one of the highest levels of woodland cover in the country at over 23 per cent. Other important habitats include the rare lowland heath of Ashdown Forest and unimproved grassland Agriculture is central to the rural economy and includes dairying, mixed farming and horticulture. Forestry remains a traditional Wealden industry. There are no major settlements but the major growth of urban areas such as Tunbridge Wells, Crawley, Horsham and London has resulted in a high proportion of commuter population in the AONB villages. The AONB is an important visitor destination for the South East and local authority policy encourages appropriate development of tourism and recreation. Joint Character Areas In 1996 the former Countryside Commission and English Nature, with support from English Heritage, produced The Character of England Map. This map combines English Nature s Natural Areas and the former Countryside Commission s Countryside Character Areas into a map of 159 Joint Character Areas (JCAs) for the whole of England. There are six Joint Character Areas within the study area, and their key characteristics are summarised below. North Kent Plain An open, low and gently undulating landscape characterised by high-quality, fertile, loamy soils dominated by agricultural land uses. The exposed arable/horticultural fields have a sparse hedgerow pattern and only limited shelter belt planting around settlements and farmsteads. There are extensive areas of grazing marsh and reed beds. Lines of pylons dominate the open and often treeless landscape. Discrete but significant areas of woodland and more enclosed farmland are distinctive and are confined to the higher ground around Blean and to the west, above the general level of the plain. Urbanisation and large settlements are often visually dominant in the landscape due to the lack of any screening woodlands or shelterbelts. North Downs The North Downs is a dramatic and distinctive Chalk downland with a continuous and steep scarp giving extensive views across Kent and Surrey towards the South Downs. The broad dip slope gradually drops towards the Thames and the English Channel. The dip slope is incised by a number of valleys or coombes of the rivers Stour, Medway, Darent and Mole. Land use includes a few pockets of traditional downland grazing but (especially in Kent) it is largely dominated by arable fields. The North Downs are a rural landscape with scattered flintwalled farmhouses and large houses. In places, it is undulating with dry grassed valleys and ridge top woodlands. In some areas, major motorway and railway corridors introduce a discordant feature into an otherwise quiet and peaceful rural landscape. Wealden Greensand A large belt of Greensand typified by its scarp/dip-slope topography and by extensive belts of ancient mixed woodland of hazel, oak and birch together with more recent coniferous colonisation and plantations. Settlements are generally scattered villages and hamlets linked by deep, overhanging, winding lanes with some small, irregular fields remnant of Saxon clearances. In east Surrey and western Kent, there are many wooded commons ( charts ) with 59

61 oak/birch woodland. In the east of Kent, the Wealden Greensand has a gentler and more open aspect than the wooded west. This part of the area is also more marked by development with the presence of major towns and communication corridors such as the M26/M25/M20 and railway lines Fruit growing is still a characteristic feature of the Kent Greensand. Older deer parks and more recent 18th century parklands are a distinctive feature of the Wealden Greensand with extensive views out over the Low Weald. Low Weald Broad, low lying and gently undulating clay vales underline a small-scale intimate landscape enclosed by an intricate mix of small woodlands, a patchwork of fields, and hedgerows. Low Weald generally includes an abundance of ponds and small stream valleys often with wet woodlands of alder and willow. Rural in character with dispersed farmsteads, small settlements often include mainly timber and brick-built traditional buildings where not now dominated by recent urban development. Historic settlement pattern was dictated by a preference for higher drier outcrops of limestone or sandstone with moated manor houses being a characteristic feature. Hop growing and orchards are still a distinctive land use in the east. The Kentish Low Weald is traversed by numerous narrow lanes with broad verges and ditches; these are continuous with the drove roads of the North Downs. High Weald The High Weald is a well-wooded landscape rising above the Low Weald and deeply incised in many places to give a complex pattern of ridges and steep stream valleys. Distinctive and scattered sandstone outcrops or bluffs rise above the farmland and woodland. Large reservoirs are significant features within the High Weald landscape adding to the area s interest and variety. High forest, small woods and copses, and a network of hedges and shaws link small, irregular fields created from cleared woodland. Heavy clay soils have reduced the effect of agricultural change in the area and it is still, in the main, a quiet pastoral landscape with mixed farming predominating. Thames Basin Lowlands A small-scale farmed landscape sandwiched between the Thames Basin Heaths to the west and the North Downs to the south and east, broadening out towards the London suburbs immediately to the north. In many, places the Thames Basin LowIands retain a typical English farmed countryside, although the landscape itself has been largely lost or fragmented by, the urban expansion of London across the northern parts. The gently, undulating farmland is interspersed with woods and shaws, villages and farmhouses. Fields are small or mediumsized and uneven, usually hedged and with some hedgerow oak. The flatter parts to the north and East tend to be more open and relatively featureless. Identification of key trends within the baseline The SEA Directive requires the consideration of the likely evolution of the state of the environment without the implementation of the strategy being appraised. Within the next 30 years it is predicted that there will be a number of external influences that will affect the SESW Water Resources Management Plan. Such influences and future trends have been identified and are summarised below. Population growth and increases in demand SESW currently supplies water to around 647,000 customers. Significant population growth of over 95,000 people is expected within the Company supply area during the planning period to 2034/35. The Company must plan its water resources to meet forecast increases in demand to maintain essential supplies of potable water to its customers. 60

62 Climate change and water availability The biggest effects of future climate change are expected to be seen in the South East of England. The UK Climate Impacts Programme (UKCIP) has published climate change scenarios for the UK. These scenarios suggest the following trends: The UK climate will become warmer; The temperature of coastal waters will also increase, although not as rapidly as over land; High summer temperatures will become more frequent, whilst very cold winters will become increasingly rare; Winters will become wetter and summers may become drier throughout the UK; Snowfall amounts will decrease throughout the UK; and Heavy winter precipitation will become more frequent These scenarios, which indicate increased climate variability will become the norm, will have important implications for future water availability in the area. Short periods of high intensity rainfall will lead to higher runoff rates, and therefore reduced groundwater recharge which supplies the bulk of public water supply in the study area. This will increase the likelihood of future drought as well as exacerbating the risk of flooding. Flood Risk It is anticipated that climate change will result in increased runoff in catchments, increase flow into river systems and result in more frequent and severe incidences of flooding. Increased development and changes in land use may also increase runoff rates and add to the effects of increased flood risk. 4.3 KEY ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES The review of other plans and programmes relevant to the study area and the baseline data collected so far have been used to identify the key environmental issues which are relevant to the SESW WRMP. This includes those relating to any areas of particular environmental importance The following table presents a summary of the environmental issues which have been identified either as having potential implications/constraints for the WRMP, or where there may be opportunities to enhance environmental value and quality. 61

63 Key Issues Opportunities and Constraints for SESW WRMP Plan SEA Topic Environmental Theme Population Growth Significant population growth is expected within the SESW supply area during the planning period. The WRMP will plan for future population growth and development in order to meet expected demand. Population: Water; Climatic factors 9 Recreation and Countryside Access Although not a specific objective of their statutory designation, AONBs provide access to the countryside and are therefore an important resource for local people. Consider the effects of proposed options on recreational resources, particularly those which will require large scale infrastructure development. There may be opportunities for social/recreational gains and these should also be considered fully in the options appraisal. Population, Human Health 1 Sites Designated for Nature Conservation There are several nationally and internationally designated sites including Ramsar Wetlands, SACs, SPAs and SSSIs in the study area. Wetland and riverine designated sites will be of particular significance in terms of additional abstraction and discharge. Consider the effects of abstraction on international, national and local sites in addition to effects on non-designated habitats. Consider the short and long term effects of infrastructure development and construction activities. There may be opportunities for enhancement of designated sites which should also be considered within the options appraisal. Water; Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna 1,2,3 Protected Species Several rare and protected species are found within the study area, many of which are sensitive to changes in hydrology and water quality. Consider the effects of abstraction and discharge on protected species and their habitats. Consider the short and long term effects of infrastructure development and construction activities. There may be opportunities for enhancement of biodiversity which should also be considered within the options appraisal. Water; Biodiversity, Flora & Fauna 1,2,3 62

64 Key Issues Opportunities and Constraints for SESW WRMP Plan SEA Topic Environmental Theme Salmonid Fisheries Salmonid fisheries within the Mole and Eden Rivers are restricted to non-migratory Brown Trout. Coarse Fisheries There are several river and still water fisheries in the study area of varying quality Surface Water Quality The quality of surface waters in the study area is monitored by the Environment Agency. There is a general, risk to water quality in rivers and streams across the catchments caused by point and diffuse pollution, which can be exacerbated by low flows. Groundwater Quality The vulnerability of groundwater in the study area is monitored by the Environment Agency. Risks to water quality in groundwater results from polluting activities or the accidental release of pollutants. Consider the effect of abstraction and discharge on protecting and where possible, enhancing salmonid fisheries. Consider the short and long term effects of infrastructure development and construction activities. There may be opportunities for enhancement of salmonid fisheries which should also be considered within the options appraisal. Consider the effect of abstraction and discharge on protecting and where possible, enhancing coarse fisheries. Consider the short and long term effects of infrastructure development and construction activities. There may be opportunities for enhancement of cyprinid fisheries which should also be considered within the options appraisal. Consider the effect of pollution sources including discharge and runoff in combination with abstraction. Consider the short and long term effects of infrastructure development and construction activities. There may be opportunities to improve the quality of surface water. Consider the effect of potentially polluting activities and risk of accidental pollution incidents during both construction and operation. Consider opportunities to improve the quality of groundwater. Water; Biodiversity Flora & Fauna Water; Biodiversity Flora & Fauna 1,2,3,4,7,9 1,2,3,4,7,9 Water 1,2,3,4,7 Water 1,2,3,4,7 63

65 Key Issues Opportunities and Constraints for SESW WRMP Plan SEA Topic Environmental Theme Water Availability The study area is groundwater dominated. According to the CAMS the major aquifers are over licensed or over abstracted at low flows. The River Eden, the only surface water resource in the area is over licensed at low flows. Water is only likely to be available at times of high flows. The predicted influences of climate change are likely to affect the future availability of water in the region. Consider where abstraction licences may be increased as well as new sources of water including those outside of the study area. Integration of the water supply network in the South East is likely to be necessary to meet future demand. The relative sustainability of each of the options, in terms of their own potential to contribute to future climate change should be considered as well as effects of climate change on water availability. This will ensure that the plan as a whole seeks to minimise any contribution to climate change. There may be opportunities to positively influence the water availability of water resources which should also be considered within the options appraisal. Water; Population; Human Health; Climatic Factors 1,7,12 Flood Risk Flood risk to existing property and future developments is expected to increase as one of the predicted effects of climate change. Climatic Factors Need to contribute to reducing green house gas emissions and take account of sustainability of materials use. Climate change is likely to increase the demand for water, reduce water resource availability and reduce water quality. Cultural Heritage and Archaeological Potential Numerous Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Area of Archaeological Potential exist within the study area. Consider the likely effects of options on flood risk from surface and groundwater to property and land. Population: Water: Material Assets 9 Identify the carbon footprint of options within the WRMP. Climatic factors 10,14,17,18 Consider short and long term effects on designated and undesignated cultural heritage. Identify, protect and enhance features of architectural, historical and archaeological interest and their settings. Heritage 6 64

66 Key Issues Opportunities and Constraints for SESW WRMP Plan SEA Topic Environmental Theme Landscape Character The study area includes three Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompassing six different Joint Character Areas. Consider the short and long term effects on the character of landscapes within the study area and seek opportunities to enhance landscape character. Landscape 5 65

67 Sutton And East Surrey Water 4.4 THE SEA FRAMEWORK The assessment framework is fundamental to the SEA, as it forms the basis for predicting and assessing the effects arising from the implementation of the WRMP. This is achieved by translating the baseline information and identified environmental issues into a series of environmental objectives against which the WRMP can be assessed. The list of objectives also incorporates any relevant environmental themes and objectives from other plans and programmes (refer to Section 4.1). For each objective, one or more indicators and targets are also set. These provide the basis for monitoring the effects of the plan following implementation (refer to Section 8) It should be noted that the targets accompanying the indicators refer to the environmental effects of the WRMP following the implementation of any required mitigation measures, rather than the effects associated with unmitigated options. Where zero targets have been proposed, this reflects the weight of legislation or policy which also relates to the receptors/issues encapsulated in the indicators Though the SEA Directive does not specifically require the use of objectives or indicators in the SEA process, they are a recognised and useful way in which environmental effects can be described, analysed and compared at key stages of the WRMP development The list of 15 objectives and associated indicators and targets is presented in Table

68 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 4.14 SEA objectives, indicators and targets SEA Objective Indicator(s) Target 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and other important habitats and species Number of internationally designated sites (SPA, SAC and Ramsar) adversely affected Number of nationally designated sites (SSSI and NNR) adversely affected Number and area of locally designated sites (CWS, LNR and SNCI) adversely affected Area of Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitats adversely affected Zero sites affected adversely Zero sites affected adversely Zero sites affected adversely Zero area affected adversely SEA Topics Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Number of protected and BAP priority species adversely affected Zero habitats or species affected adversely Number of internationally designated sites (SPA, SAC and Ramsar) adversely affected Zero sites affected adversely 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Number of nationally designated sites (SSSI and NNR) adversely affected Number and area of locally designated sites (CWS, LNR and SNCI) adversely affected Area of Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) Priority Habitats adversely affected Zero sites affected adversely Zero sites affected adversely Zero area affected adversely Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Number of protected and BAP priority species adversely affected Zero habitats or species affected adversely Estimated number of vehicle trips associated with construction Minimal vehicle trips 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option Number of roads affected by closures, diversions or traffic controls required by construction. Number of public rights of way affected by diversions or closures. Number of waterbodies where recreational activities will be affected by temporary or permanent disruption or closure. Minimal disruption to normal traffic flow Minimal disruption to rights of way Minimal disruption to water based recreation Population, Human Health, Material Assets 67

69 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 4.14 SEA objectives, indicators and targets SEA Objective Indicator(s) Target 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Area of recreational and amenity facilities Number of users of recreational and amenity facilities Area and quality of public open space No reduction in area or recreational/amenity facilities No fall in the number of users of existing recreational and amenity facilities No decrease in the area or quality of public open space SEA Topics Population, Human Health, Material Assets 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity Number of earth heritage SSSI units or Regionally Important Geological Sites where condition is adversely affected Zero units affected adversely Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Number of AONB Designations adversely affected Zero designated sites affected adversely 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character Number of Proposed National Park designated areas adversely affected Zero designated areas affected adversely Landscape Adverse visual effect on landscape character To minimise visual effect 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries Classification of salmonid fisheries Classification of freshwater fisheries Mobilisation and deposition of fine sediment No change to fishery classification No change to fishery classification To maintain existing water clarity Flora and Fauna, Water 8 To reduce contamination and safeguard soil quality and quantity Area of Grade 1, 2 and 3a agricultural land damaged or destroyed Number of contaminated and potentially contaminated sites encountered Minimal damage or destruction To provide for remediation where contaminated sites are encountered Soil 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality Groundwater resource availability status Groundwater chemical quality Maintain or improve existing availability status Maintain or improve existing water quality Water 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality Water resource availability status Chemical quality assessment Biological quality assessment Maintain or improve existing availability status Maintain or improve existing quality assessment Maintain or improve existing quality assessment Water, Biodiversity, Fauna and Flora 68

70 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 4.14 SEA objectives, indicators and targets SEA Objective Indicator(s) Target Physical/geomorphological risk assessment Maintain or improve existing risk assessment River flow derived by rates of abstraction No environmentally unacceptable river flows SEA Topics 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Risk of fluvial flooding to land, property and material assets No increased risk of fluvial flooding Climatic Factors, Risk of flooding to land, property and material assets from No increased risk of flooding from Water, groundwater groundwater Health, Risk of flooding to land, property and material assets from surface No increased risk of flooding from surface Material water run-off water assets 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Estimated number of vehicle trips associated with construction and operation of the water resource option Estimated carbon emissions derived from energy resource required from non-renewable sources Minimal vehicle trips Energy efficiency; minimal carbon emissions Climatic Factors 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste Volume of chemical by-products Volume of raw materials used in construction and operation Volume of re-used or recycled materials used in construction and operation Minimal chemical by-products Efficient use of raw materials Maximise the volume of re-used or recycled materials Material Assets Number of Scheduled Ancient Monuments or other sites of known archaeological remains and/or their settings adversely affected Zero sites affected adversely 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest Number of listed buildings and/or their settings adversely affected Number of conservation areas and/or registered historic parks and gardens and/or historic landscape areas adversely affected by water resource option Zero listed buildings affected adversely Zero conservation areas, registered historic parks and gardens historic landscape areas affected adversely Cultural Heritage 69

71 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 4.14 SEA objectives, indicators and targets SEA Objective Indicator(s) Target 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Effect on water availability derived by location and rates of abstraction Minimal adverse affects on other users SEA Topics Population 70

72 Sutton And East Surrey Water 5 ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF ALTERNATIVES 5.1 INTRODUCTION The SEA Directive states that in the Environmental Report: the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme.and reasonable alternatives.are [to be] identified, described and evaluated (Article 5.1). The Environmental Report should include information that may reasonably be required taking into account current knowledge and methods of assessment, the contents and level of detail in the plan or programme [and] its stage in the decision-making process (Article 5.2) In addition the SEA Directive requires the Environmental Report to outline measures to prevent, reduce and where possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme (Annex I (g)) Existing SEA guidance recognises that the most familiar form of SEA prediction and evaluation is generally broad-brush and qualitative. It is recognised that quantitative predictions are not always practicable and broad-based and qualitative predictions can be equally valid and appropriate. Examples of the prediction and evaluation techniques for assessing significance of effects are expert judgement, dialogue with stakeholders and public participation, geographical information systems, reference to legislation and regulations and environmental capacity. 5.2 ALTERNATIVE STRATEGIC OPTIONS SESW s WRMP has included a detailed review of the supply demand balance in accordance with the EA Planning guidance. The plan shows that the Company has a current surplus in resources for the dry year annual average scenario that is maintained throughout the planning period. The Company has a current deficit in resources for the dry year peak period which is driving the need for additional demand management and supply side developments. The final plan includes a detailed review of the deployable output of the Company s groundwater and surface water sources, forecast growth in demand and uncertainty in the supply demand balance SESW has adopted a twin track approach to water resource planning, comprising both demand management options and resource development measures Initial screening has ruled out some high level options on the grounds of impracticality and cost. Appraisal of an unconstrained list of options including detailed analysis of economic, environmental and social factors has been undertaken to develop a constrained list for demand management and resource development as presented below in Table 5.1 Further detail on the options appraisal is provided within the Final WRMP. Resource development and demand management options During preparation of the Final WRMP all potential supply side options were identified to establish an unconstrained options list. The viability of these schemes in terms of water availability, cost and environmental impact was then considered in order to identify those schemes to take forward for more detailed options appraisal, as part of the constrained options list. 71

73 Sutton And East Surrey Water The constrained options, taken forward for detailed economic appraisal are set out in Table A number of options were included in the unconstrained options list but were then discarded on the grounds of water availability, cost or environmental effect. A summary of these options and the reasons for their exclusion is provided in Appendix I. Table 5.1 Constrained resource development and demand management options included with the SESW Final WRMP Option ref. Option Name 1. Reservoir A 1.1 Increase peak week capacity of Reservoir A from 45Ml/d to 70Ml/d 1.2 Raise Reservoir A embankment 2. Enhancement of groundwater 2.1 Scheme GW3 (Mole Valley Chalk). Install new borehole. 2.2 Scheme GW4 (Lower Greensand). Replacement borehole at Chalkpit Lane. 2.3 Scheme GW5 (Lower Greensand). Lower pump cut-out and replace pump. 2.4 Scheme GW6 (Lower Greensand). Provide new ammonia removal and GAC WTW. 3. Aquifer Storage Recovery 3.1 Scheme GW7 (North Downs Chalk ASR) 3.2 Scheme GW8 (High level recharge of North Downs Chalk) Water Resource Zone Increase in Peak DO (Ml/d) Increase in Average DO (Ml/d) East Surrey East Surrey East Surrey East Surrey East Surrey East Surrey Sutton 2..0 East Surrey

74 Sutton And East Surrey Water 3.3 Scheme GW9 (High level recharge of Lower Greensand) East Surrey Bulk supplies 4.1 TW strategic resource development. 30Ml/d transfer to SESW. Sutton Metering 5.1 Enhanced Metering 1. Company wide Varies throughout planning period Varies throughout planning period 32,000 selective meters from % meter penetration by Enhanced Metering 2. Company wide Varies throughout planning period Varies throughout planning period 90% meter penetration by Water Efficiency 6.1 Schools retrofit programme 6.2 Elderly care home retrofit programme Company wide Company wide General nonhousehold programme 6.4 Targeted Company retrofit of existing households Company wide Company wide Targeted horticultural management plan 6.6 Targeted DIY retrofit of existing households Company wide Company wide

75 Sutton And East Surrey Water 7. Leakage reduction 7.1 1Ml/d Leakage reduction below current level 7.2 2Ml/d Leakage reduction below current level 7.3 4Ml/d Leakage reduction below current level Company wide Company wide Company wide Descriptions of Resource Development Options Option 1.1: Reservoir A - Increase treatment capacity to 70 Ml/d Reservoir A WTW has a current peak deployable output of 36Ml/d. Ongoing refurbishment works at the WTW will increase the output to 45Ml/d by the end of These AMP4 funded works have been included as a planned scheme within the baseline supply-demand balance The ongoing works will realise a 9Ml/d increase in peak deployable output from Reservoir A which will reduce the dry year critical period deficit in water resources Further substantial utilisation of the reservoir storage can be provided to meet peak demand. This option would involve increasing the WTW capacity from 45Ml/d (to be provided by 2010) to the licensed peak abstraction volume of 70Ml/d. Increased abstraction from the reservoir during the peak period would meet the current supply-demand balance for the Company s supply area. The scheme would have negligible environmental impact as the abstraction licence to refill the reservoir from the river would remain unchanged i.e. there would be no adverse impact on river flow as a result of the increased abstraction from the reservoir The increase to 70Ml/d will require further refurbishment and additions to all aspects of the Reservoir A WTW treatment process, including clarification, filtration, chemical dosing, adsorption, THM stripping, disinfection, and washwater recovery. Improvements to the high lift pumping station and distribution network will also be required to accommodate the increased peak output into supply. Option 1.2: Raise Reservoir A Embankment Raising the Reservoir A embankment would increase the volume of stored water, which would provide an increase in the average yield from the reservoir. This option has been included to demonstrate the costs and likely increases in average yield from such a scheme. Based on available drawings of the earth dam alignment, a 3m raising of the embankment would appear to be viable. It is likely that some realignment of the embankment locally to the small housing development on the north side of the embankment would be required. However a detailed study would be required to confirm the viability of this scheme A 3m raising of the embankment would increase the storage volume of the reservoir by approximately 3,600Ml. The Aquator model of the Reservoir A system was used to estimate the additional average yield created by the dam raising. It is estimated that the scheme would provide an additional average yield of 9.2Ml/d but no increase in peak output which is constrained by the WTW capacity. 74

76 Sutton And East Surrey Water The scheme has not been considered in the Company s final planning solution as it offers no increase in peak yield, which is the current driver for new resources within the supply area. Option 2.1: Scheme GW3 (Mole Valley Chalk) Following further investigations into this source it has been identified that peak yield could be enhanced through the installation of a new borehole to supplement the interception of springflows. The likely increase in PDO as a result of this scheme has been assessed as 0.2Ml/d. Option 2.2: Scheme GW4 (Lower Greensand) The GW4 source was found to contain Hydrogen Sulphide in 2003/04 and the borehole is no longer operational. A replacement borehole site has been identified for purchase by the Company. It is expected that installation of a new borehole at this site and a new 2.5km raw water main back to GW4 could provide an increase in average and peak yield of approximately 1.2Ml/d. Option 2.3: Scheme GW5 (Lower Greensand) Peak yield from the GW5 borehole could be increased by increasing the pump capacity and lowering the pump cut-out level. The GW5 source output is of poor quality and has to be blended prior to treatment and hence GAC adsorbers may also be required for this scheme. The likely increase in peak output is approximately 0.2Ml/d. Option 2.4: Scheme GW6 (Lower Greensand) Abstraction from this source has ceased following elevated ammonia and pesticide levels. The addition of a package ammonia removal plant (ion exchange/zeolite) and GAC adsorbers adjacent to the borehole would be required to allow this source to be reintroduced. The likely increase in peak yield is approximately 1.4Ml/d. Option 3.1: Scheme GW7: North Downs Chalk ASR The first phase of this option, using existing infrastructure, has been completed and successfully trialled resulting in a licensed increase in PDO of 3Ml/d. The proposed extension of this scheme would continue to utilise existing licences and involve abstraction of higher rates of water from the unconfined aquifer during periods of high groundwater levels and average demand. Increased rates of raw water would be transferred via the raw water main to new recharge boreholes adjacent to the existing boreholes at sources 13 and 14 to recharge the confined aquifer. The additional summer abstraction from the confined aquifer would be from two new boreholes, together with a new water pumping station and water main. These additional abstraction boreholes would provide greater flexibility, reduce drawdown levels, as abstraction would occur over a greater area, and help capture more of the recharged water that would tend to move to the north. The expected increase in peak period DO would be approximately 2Ml/d. Option 3.2: High level recharge of the North Downs Chalk - Leatherhead to Eyhurst Park Under this scheme groundwater would be abstracted from the unconfined chalk aquifer at times of high groundwater levels and average demand. Turbidity would be removed by new pressure filters and the partially treated raw water would be transferred, via a new pumping station and 13km transfer main, to a new recharge borehole to recharge the North Downs Chalk aquifer. It is expected that the recharge of the aquifer and resulting increase in peak period DO would be approximately 5Ml/d. It has been assumed that the recharge borehole would also be used as a production borehole during the summer months, with a new 2.2km 300mm dia. raw water transfer main to an existing WTW. 75

77 Sutton And East Surrey Water This option would require extensive additional investigation into the environmental impacts of the abstraction, the recharged aquifer quality and the transfer pipeline route. This option is considered to pose a greater risk with regards to planning and technical problems, associated with the pipeline route and aquifer quality, compared to other options. Option 3.3: Lower Greensand Aquifer Storage Recovery - Leatherhead to Eyhurst Park This option is similar to the High Level Recharge of the North Downs Chalk (Option 3.2), but recharging the Lower Greensand rather than the Chalk aquifer by means of a deeper borehole. Turbidity would be removed by new pressure filters and the partially treated raw water would be transferred, via a new pumping station and 13km transfer main, to a new recharge borehole to recharge the Lower Greensand aquifer. It is expected that the recharge of the aquifer and resulting increase in peak period DO would be approximately 5Ml/d. It has been assumed that the recharge borehole would also be used as a production borehole during the summer months, with a new 2.2km 300mm dia. raw water transfer main to an existing WTW The precipitation of iron is likely following the introduction of oxygenated water from the unconfined chalk into the confined Lower Greensand aquifer. The option therefore includes an allowance for additional iron removal at the WTW. As with Option 3.2 this option would require extensive additional investigation into the environmental impacts of the abstraction, the recharged aquifer quality and the transfer pipeline route. This option is considered to pose a greater risk with regards to planning and technical problems, associated with the pipeline route and aquifer quality, compared to other options. Option 4.1: 30Ml/d Bulk Supply from Thames Water As part of the Water Resources in the South East study led by the EA, an option to transfer up to 30Ml/d from the TW strategic resource development to the SESW softening works at Source 1 has been investigated. The transfer scheme comprises a 30Ml/d treated water transfer from the Thames London Ring main at Merton to SESW s Cheam WTW following development of the Upper Thames Reservoir Development which is currently planned to be available by The scheme would involve the construction of a new pumping station and a new 6km 600mm transfer main to SESW. The hard water from the Thames transfer scheme would require softening to the same levels as the rest of SESW s supplies in that zone. A new 30Ml/d water softening works would be required to provide the significant increase in capacity. New distribution mains would also be required to distribute the treated water within the Sutton Zone Under this option the bulk transfer from Thames Water is assumed to be for the SESW s use only. The estimated scheme costs for Option 4.1 allow for distribution within the Sutton zone only, without any provision for transferring the imported Thames water to the Company s East Surrey zone As shown in the Company s WRMP the Company do not require the Thames transfer until beyond 2034/35. After 2034/35 the Thames transfer would allow the Company to reduce the interzonal transfer from the East Surrey zone (from Reservoir A) to the Sutton zone It is important to note that additional distribution costs would be incurred to allow the Company to release water stored with Reservoir A to other water companies in the South East. Such release schemes would require additional pumping stations and pipelines to transfer imported water between the Sutton and East Surrey zones. These costs would be in addition to the bulk transfer costs included in Option NB This option has been re-numbered since the Draft WRMP and previous SEA ER, formerly

78 Sutton And East Surrey Water Descriptions of Demand Management Options Option 5.1: Enhanced metering Option 5.1 includes for 32,000 new meters during the period (meter optants + selective meters), followed by accelerated metering beyond 2015 to achieve 90% meter penetration in Option 5.2: Enhanced metering Option 5.2 includes for 140,000 new meters during the period (meter optants + selective meters) to achieve 90% metering penetration by Option 6.1: Schools retrofit programme Under this option it is proposed that the Company would install a range of water efficiency measures in schools across the Company supply area including: Urinal controllers; Cistern Displacement Devices (Save-A-Flush); Push taps; and Tap aerator inserts The schools initiative would provide further opportunities to educate children about the benefits of water efficiency in 155 schools. It would allow the Company to make real savings in consumption and to gain valuable knowledge about the costs and benefits of water efficiency measures. The Company sees education of young people as a key element in changing the behaviour of its customers and their attitude to the use of water. Option 6.2: Elderly care home retrofit programme Option 6.2 would involve the installation of water efficiency devices within elderly care homes across the Company supply area. This would include EcoBETA dual flush toilet retrofits, tap aerator inserts and either a low flow aerated showerhead or a showerhead flow regulator. Option 6.3: General non-household programme This option would comprise a communication and education exercise to make selected commercial facilities more aware of their water use and of the benefits that can be achieved through water efficiency. Water saving devices would be installed by the Company including urinal controllers, cistern displacement devices and tap inserts. Option 6.4: Targeted Company retrofit of existing households Option 6.4 would involve installation of water saving devices within a targeted group of existing households. Water saving devices would be installed by the Company including EcoBETA dual flush toilet cisterns, either a low flow aerated showerhead or a showerhead flow regulator, a tap aerator insert, and shower timer. Option 6.5: Targeted horticultural management plan This option would involve site visits by trained staff members to provide advice to householders on how water efficient gardening practices and garden design can reduce water consumption. 77

79 Sutton And East Surrey Water Option 6.6: Targeted DIY retrofit of existing households Option 6.6 would involve the issue of Water Efficiency Packs to participating households, containing a Cistern displacement device, either a low flow aerated showerhead or a showerhead flow regulator, a shower timer, and a postage paid water audit questionnaire for customers to return to the Company. This option would expand on an existing scheme the Company has trialled in one DMA. Options 7.1, 7.2 and 7.3: Leakage reduction Three leakage reduction scenarios have been included within the options appraisal for a 1Ml/d, 2Ml/d and 4Ml/d reduction below the current level of leakage 5.3 ASSESSMENT OF OPTIONS The likely effects on the environment of implementing the options are assessed in detail in Appendix F where a description of the nature, magnitude and duration of effects is provided; the direction and significance of effects, and their timing are assessed; any additional mitigation measures are described and commentary/explanation is provided The assessment has been undertaken to consider residual effects, i.e. those likely to remain after reasonable mitigation. Mitigation measures are described in Section Table 5.2 sets out the criteria used within the assessment to identify significant environmental effects. 78

80 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.2 Criteria for assessment Assessment Scale SEA Objectives Major Negative Moderate Negative Slight Negative Slight Positive Moderate Positive Major Positive 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Damage to or loss of any site designated at international or national level for terrestrial habitats/species, including UK and local BAP. Damage or loss of any site designated at regional or local level for terrestrial habitats/species including local BAP. Slight damage to or loss of any terrestrial habitat. Slight improvement to or creation of any terrestrial habitat. Moderate improvement to or creation of any site designated at regional or local level for terrestrial habitat including local BAP. Moderate improvement to or creation of any site designated at international or national level for terrestrial habitat including UK and local BAP. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character Damage to or loss of any site designated at international or national level for aquatic habitats/species, including UK and local BAP. Damage or loss of any site designated at the regional or local level for aquatic habitats/species including local BAP. 79 Slight damage to or loss of any aquatic habitat. Number of receptors affected by an increase in noise, odour and dust from construction and operational activities. Degree of negative effects on countryside access and recreation. Degree of negative effects on recreation, amenity facilities, open spaces and their users. Damage to or loss of site designated for geo-diversity at international or national (SSSI) level. Any loss or damage to nationally (AONB, National Parks) designated landscapes. Major significant negative effects on landscape/townscap e character. Damage to or loss of geo-diversity, including that designated at regional and local level (RIGS). Any loss or damage to regionally or locally designated landscapes. Significant negative effects on nondesignated landscapes and landscape/townscap Slight damage or loss of any geodiversity. Slight loss of or damage to any landscape or townscape. Slight improvement to or creation of any aquatic habitat. Moderate improvement to or creation of any site designated at regional or local level for aquatic habitat including local BAP. Moderate improvement to or creation of any site designated at international or national level for aquatic habitat including UK and local BAP. Potential for positive effects through the creation of recreational opportunities (e.g. reservoir). Degree of positive effects on recreation, amenity facilities, open spaces and their users. n/a n/a n/a Slight improvement or benefit to landscape / townscape character. Any improvement to or creation of designated landscape / townscape. Significant improvement or benefit to nondesignated Significant improvement to nationally designated landscapes.

81 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.2 Criteria for assessment SEA Objectives 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality Assessment Scale Major Negative Moderate Negative Slight Negative Slight Positive Moderate Positive Major Positive e character. landscape / townscapes. Major significant negative effects on water quality, quantity, in-stream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Major significant negative effects through the permanent loss of areas of best and most versatile agricultural land (grade 1, 2 or 3a agricultural land). Potential for major significant negative effects through disturbing areas of existing soil contamination. Major significant negative effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Major significant negative effects on groundwater quality. Moderate significant negative effects on water quality, quantity, in-stream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Moderate significant negative effects through the permanent loss of areas of best and most versatile agricultural land (grade 1, 2 or 3a agricultural land). Potential for moderate significant negative effects through disturbing areas of existing soil contamination. Moderate significant negative effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Moderate significant negative effects on groundwater quality. Slight negative effects on water quality, quantity, instream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Slight negative effects through the loss of other areas of agricultural land (not grade 1, 2 or 3a) and perceptible negative effects through disturbing areas of existing soil contamination. Slight negative effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Slight negative effects on groundwater quality. Slight positive effects on water quality, quantity, instream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Slight positive effects through the required remediation of areas of contaminated land. Slight positive effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Slight positive effects on groundwater quality. Moderate positive effects on water quality, quantity, instream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Moderate significant positive effects through the required remediation of areas of contaminated land. Moderate significant positive effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Moderate significant positive effects on groundwater quality. Major positive effects on water quality, quantity, instream or riparian habitat or geomorphology that would result in effects on both the salmonid and general freshwater fishery. Major significant positive effects through the required remediation of areas of contaminated land. Major significant positive effects on groundwater levels and movement and reduction in flows of groundwater dependent watercourses. Major significant positive effects on groundwater quality. 80

82 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.2 Criteria for assessment Assessment Scale SEA Objectives Major Negative Moderate Negative Slight Negative Slight Positive Moderate Positive Major Positive 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality Major significant negative effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Major significant negative effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological classification). Moderate significant negative effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Moderate significant negative effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological classification). Slight negative effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Slight negative effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological classification). Slight positive effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Slight positive effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological classification). Positive effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Return of erosion/deposition dynamics that restore natural hydro geomorphology. Positive effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological classification). Major significant positive effects on surface water hydrology and hydro geomorphology. Return of erosion/deposition dynamics that restore natural hydro geomorphology. Major significant positive effects on surface water chemical (Environment Agency chemical and nutrients classification) and biological quality (Environment Agency biological 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings Significant major negative effects through increased frequency or magnitude of flooding. Significant moderate negative effects through increased frequency or magnitude of flooding. 81 Slight negative effects through increased frequency or magnitude of flooding. Extent of emissions of CO 2 during construction/decommissioning and operation, taking into account use of renewable energy sources. Level of consumption of materials and production of non-recyclable wastes. Major significant negative effects on Scheduled Ancient Monuments and/or other nationally Moderate significant negative effects on regionally and locally important archaeological Perceptible negative effects on locally listed buildings, conservation areas, historic parks and Slight positive effects though reduced magnitude or frequency of flooding. Moderate significant positive effects through reduced magnitude or frequency of flooding. classification). Major significant positive effects through reduced magnitude or frequency of flooding. Level of provision made for sourcing of energy during construction/ decommissioning and operation from renewables. Potential for the use of recycled and reused materials in construction and operation. n/a n/a n/a

83 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.2 Criteria for assessment Assessment Scale SEA Objectives Major Negative Moderate Negative Slight Negative Slight Positive Moderate Positive Major Positive important archaeological remains or their settings. Major significant negative effects on nationally listed buildings, conservation areas, historic parks and gardens and historic landscape areas. remains and their settings. Moderate significant negative effects on nationally listed buildings, conservation areas, historic parks and gardens and historic landscape areas. gardens and historic landscape areas. 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Level of negative effects through restricted access or disruption to recreation or navigation facilities. n/a 82

84 Sutton And East Surrey Water 5.4 SUMMARY OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF STRATEGIC OPTIONS Each of the identified options within the Final WRMP as presented in Table 5.2 has been assessed against the SEA objectives using the methodology described in Section 3. Insufficient detail is available at this stage to make accurate assessments on short term effects relating to construction phase activities. A precautionary approach has been taken, assuming general construction activities having typical effects on the local environment and that appropriate mitigation has been applied Mitigation encompasses any approach aimed at preventing, reducing or off-setting significant adverse sustainability effects that have been identified. In practice, a range of measures applying one or more of these approaches is likely to be required to mitigate any significant adverse effects predicted For the purposes of the assessment it is assumed that best environmental practice is applied to any construction activities in order to reduce the effect to the natural and built environment and communities. Assessments are then made against the residual effect after generic mitigation is applied The full assessment for each option is provided in the tables in Appendix F. An overview of the full assessment is provided in Table 5.3 and Table 5.4. Effects are assessed against the SEA objectives in the short term (0-5 years) and medium to long term (5-25years). A brief discussion is provided below. The discussion highlights where receptors exist that are likely to be particularly sensitive to the implementation of options SEA is primarily concerned with the medium to long term effects as it is considered that short term effects relating to construction will be temporary and will be mitigated to acceptable levels All resource development options are expected to have a slight negative effect on the production of greenhouse gases due to the additional abstraction, treatment and distribution of treated water. Option 1.1: Reservoir A Increase treatment capacity to 70 Ml/d Activities associated with the construction phase are likely to have temporary slight negative effects on the natural and built environment and local communities in the short term. The construction of the new treatment plant will be contained within the existing site area owned by SESW There are a number of nationally designated sites within the vicinity of the reservoir. However the construction of the new WTW and pipelines is unlikely to have any significant impact on these sites The reservoir is in a predominantly rural setting and is within Green Belt with only villages and smaller settlements nearby The medium to long term effects of this option relate to the release of carbon emissions as a result of the energy required to pump any additional output of the reservoir. This is expected to be slightly negative in the short to long term of the scheme. No further medium to long term impacts are envisaged The abstraction licence to refill the reservoir from the River Eden would remain unchanged and as such there would be no effect on minimum river flow as a result of the increased peak abstraction from the reservoir. 83

85 Sutton And East Surrey Water Option 1.2: Raising of Reservoir A Construction activities, including raising the earth embankment by 3m, are likely to have slight negative effects on the natural and built environment and local communities in the short term. Likely receptors may include but will not be limited to terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity including designated and non-designated habitats agricultural land, coarse fisheries, footpath and road networks, recreational users of Reservoir A, and archaeological features The scheme would increase the volume of water stored within the reservoir by raising the earth embankment. The construction and operation of this scheme is not expected to affect flood risk in the short or long term Given the nature of the likely works and the greater area potentially affected by this scheme, the residual effect of construction on the above receptors is expected to be moderately negative. The nearby High Weald AONB and Kent Downs AONB are unlikely to be effected by the scheme Raising Reservoir A is not being considered as part of the preferred strategy. However, if it were to become necessary to implement this scheme, a major effect will be the loss of terrestrial habitats and agricultural land through raising the water level of the reservoir. Protected and sensitive species would be at risk in the short term (and to a lesser extent in the long term) as the increased storage level will inundate existing habitats. No designated habitats will be affected by inundation although the reservoir itself is an SNCI. Consideration of the management plan for this site will therefore be required prior to further development of this scheme. The potential medium to long term effect on terrestrial biodiversity has been assessed as moderately negative There is a potential benefit to the aquatic habitats associated with the reservoir in the long term since the area of the reservoir will increase. This may provide the hydrological conditions for further wetland habitats to develop. The margins of the reservoir will continue to be stressed by the management of the water body as a reservoir with periodic inundation and draw-down. This is consistent with current management practices and therefore is considered to be a neutral affect. Therefore the overall effect on aquatic habitats in the medium to long term will be slightly positive The treatment and transfer of the additional reservoir output is likely to increase the release of carbon emissions as a result of the energy requirement. This is expected to be slightly negative in the short to long term of the scheme. Option 2.1: Scheme GW3 (Mole Valley Chalk) Construction required for this option will be limited and will make use of existing infrastructure. Short term negative effects on the natural and built environment and local communities are likely to be slight Designated features associated with this option include the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment SSSI and SAC and the North Downs AONB. It is considered unlikely that this option will have significant affects on these features. The River Mole near Leatherhead is designated as a Local Nature Reserve and is classified as a cyprinid fishery. Construction is likely to have a slightly negative impact on the river and its ecology in the short term No medium to long term effects have been identified. Medium to long term effects on aquatic biodiversity, fisheries, and river flows are expected to be neutral. The Chalk at Fetcham is unconfined and as such abstraction can affect surface water flows in the River Mole LNR. There is a major input of groundwater to the River Mole at Fetcham that supports flows in the river north of Leatherhead, particularly in dry periods. This is also of importance to flows into the River Thames and as such this part of the river has a CAMS status of no water available. The unconfined Chalk management unit has a status of over-licensed. However, the option is 84

86 Sutton And East Surrey Water to abstract up to existing licensed volumes and is not expected to have any significant impact on river flows. Abstraction is not likely to affect the interest features or the general condition of the Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment designations due to lack of hydraulic connectivity of the abstraction point with this site. Option 2.2: Scheme GW4 (Lower Greensand) Environmental effects will generally be restricted to the construction phases of implementation. The scheme will involve a new replacement borehole and a new 2.5km raw water main to the GW4 source. Construction activities are likely to have slight negatives on the natural and built environment and local communities in the short term. Construction related effects will be temporary and adequately mitigated by adherence to best construction practice guidelines No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Abstraction will be limited to an existing licence and no significant impact on surface or groundwater levels are expected. Option 2.3: Scheme GW5 (Lower Greensand) Only minor works are required to modify the operation of this existing abstraction. No significant environmental effects on the environmental baseline are anticipated either through implementation or operation. Option 2.4: Scheme GW6 (Lower Greensand) Implementation of this option will require construction of a package ammonia plant next to the borehole within the existing compound with allowances for heightened security measures. This is unlikely to result in significant effects on the baseline environment. Abstraction will remain within the existing licence for this borehole Additional treatment may result in an increase in energy consumption during operation. This has been assessed as a slightly negative effect. Option 3.1: Scheme GW7: North Downs Chalk ASR The proposed extension of this scheme would continue to utilise existing licences and involve abstraction of higher rates of water from the unconfined aquifer during periods of high groundwater levels and average demand. The recharge scheme is unlikely to have any significant effect on local groundwater levels Slight negative effects may be realised through additional energy requirements of treatment and pumping in the short to long term. Option 3.2: Scheme GW8: High level recharge of the North Downs Chalk Under this scheme groundwater would be abstracted from the unconfined aquifer during periods of high groundwater levels and average demand. Partially treated raw water would be transferred, via a new pumping station and 13km transfer main, to a new recharge borehole to recharge the North Downs Chalk Aquifer. Due to the length of the pipeline required and the natural and man-made features that need to be crossed, construction-related effects are likely to be widespread and have the potential to affect a number of receptors. There are a number of uncertainties with assessing the construction-related effects of the scheme at this stage. Consideration of development sites and potential pipeline routes will have to consider the location of key features of the built and natural environment Operational effects include the energy requirements of partially treating water prior to discharge into the storage aquifer, as well as the requirement for pumping water. Negative 85

87 Sutton And East Surrey Water effects resulting from operation are likely to include a moderate increase in greenhouse gas emissions as a direct result of this process. Option 3.3: Scheme GW9: Lower Greensand Aquifer Storage Recovery As with the High Level Recharge of the North Downs Chalk this option would require extensive additional investigation into the environmental effects of the abstraction, the recharged aquifer quality and the transfer pipeline route. Likely short to long term effects are similar to Option 3.2. Option 4.1: 30Ml/d Bulk Supply from Thames Water This scheme would only become available following construction of the Thames water strategic resource scheme after The availability of this scheme is therefore too late to maintain the supply balance within the SESW supply area and hence it cannot form part of the Company s preferred resources strategy Should the scheme be implemented it would involve the construction of a new pumping station at Merton and a new 6km 600mm main, tunnelled for the majority of its length from Merton to the Company supply area. A new softening water treatment plant would also be required at the Company s existing WTW Slight negative effects on surface and groundwater quality are likely in the short term. Construction is likely to create noise and dust nuisance to local communities and disrupt traffic flow on major road networks There are a number of uncertainties with assessing the construction-related effects of the scheme at this stage. Consideration of development sites and potential pipeline routes will have to consider the location of key features of the built and natural environment This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term this may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including terrestrial habitats under stress due to low water levels, leading to slight positive environmental effects. Demand Management Options It is generally expected that there is likely to be slight short term negative effects arising from demand management options. Adopting a precautionary approach, metering schemes also have potential to cause minor disruption to local communities, whereas leakage reduction schemes may result in more widespread disruption affecting both the built and natural environment. It is expected that best practice measures applied to implementation will serve to minimise any negative effects. No further short, medium or long term negative effects have been identified as likely to result from the demand management options Implementation of each of the demand management options has the potential to reduce the pressure on water resources in terms of quality and quantity. This has the potential to have a minor positive effect on the aquatic environment in the medium to long term. Overview of Assessment of Strategic Options The full assessment of all options is provided in Appendix F. An overview of the full assessment is provided in Table 5.3 for the resource development options and Table 5.4 for the demand management options. 86

88 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.3 Assessment of WRMP strategic resource development options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term SEA Objective 1.1 Increase capacity of Reservoir A 1.2 Raise Reservoir A 2.1 Scheme GW3 2.2 Scheme GW4 2.3 Scheme GW5 2.4 Scheme GW6 3.1 Scheme GW7 3.2 Scheme GW8 3.3 Scheme GW9 4.1 Bulk supply from Thames Water S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive 87

89 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 5.4 Assessment of WRMP strategic demand management options against SEA objectives in the short and medium to long term SEA Objective 5.1 EM1 5.2 EM2 6.1 School Retrofit 6.2 Care Home Retrofit 6.3 Non- Househol ds 6.4 Existing houses 6.5 Hortic. Mngnt 6.6 DIY Retrofit 7.1 LR 1Ml/d 7.2 LR 2Ml/d 7.3 LR 4Ml/d S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive 88

90 Sutton And East Surrey Water 6 ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE PREFERRED STRATEGY 6.1 SELECTION OF THE PREFERRED STRATEGY As set out in section 5.0 a range of resource development and demand management options have been considered as part of the Company s Final WRMP. The resource options include increasing the output of Reservoir A, enhancement of existing groundwater sources, a range of aquifer storage recovery schemes, and a bulk supply scheme from Thames Water. Demand management options include a range of water efficiency options and leakage reduction schemes Following AISC and NPV analysis the Company s preferred least cost strategy to maintain the supply demand balance over the planning period to 2034/35 was established, taking into account the environmental and social costs associated with each option in accordance with the EA planning guidance The preferred strategy identified within the Company s Final WRMP is to implement Option 1.1 in 2012 to increase the peak output from Reservoir A to 70Ml/d, Option 5.1 to increase household metering to 90% of all household customers by 2025, Option 6.1 to install water efficient devices in schools, and a long term leakage reduction programme to reduce leakage by around 3.5Ml/d to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and Environmental Effects of the Preferred Strategy The WRMP indicates the preferred strategy for the SESW supply area is to increase the peak output of Reservoir A, to implement a programme to fit 32,000 new meters, a schools water efficiency scheme and to reduce leakage by around 3.5Ml/d to 12.5% of distribution input between 2015 and The environmental effects of the strategy can be derived from the combined assessment of these options. Table 6.1 outlines the assessment of the WRMP specific to the preferred strategy. The likely effects of implementation of the WRMP are assessed against the 15 environmental objectives already identified. Where significant adverse effects have been identified, mitigation measures to avoid, reduce or compensate for the effect have been outlined and the residual significance of the effect recorded With mitigation it is anticipated that slight negative environmental effects will be limited to the short term for the construction phase of the Reservoir A scheme There is potential for demand management, through implementation of metering and leakage reduction programmes, to have a medium to long term positive effect on water resources within the study area Adopting a precautionary approach, metering schemes also have potential to cause minor disruption to local communities, whereas leakage reduction schemes may result in more widespread disruption affecting both the built and natural environment. It is expected that best practice measures applied to implementation will serve to minimise any negative effects. No further short, medium or long term negative effects have been identified as likely to result from the demand management options. Appropriate Assessment There are no European sites as defined by the EC Habitats and Birds Directives (Section 1.2.1) within 10km of Reservoir A, the nearest being Ashdown Forest SPA approximately 15km to the south. It is considered highly unlikely that implementation of the proposed plan 89

91 Sutton And East Surrey Water will have any negative effect on the integrity of a European site and therefore an Appropriate Assessment will not be completed. Cumulative Effects While there is potential for implementation of the preferred strategy to result in slight negative effects in the short term, associated with construction activities, it is unlikely that implementation of the strategy will have any medium or long term cumulative effects on the baseline environment in or around the study area. 90

92 Sutton And East Surrey Water Table 6.1 Assessment of preferred strategy SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Construction of the WTW and associated distribution mains may have an adverse impact on terrestrial biodiversity. Distribution mains will replace existing water mains and will have limited temporary impact on ecology. Construction of the new WTW will be within the existing SESW site area. Leakage reduction activities may also have a short term negative effect. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. Leakage reduction activities may also have a short term negative effect. There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. No effects anticipated. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation the strategy should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment in the short term during the construction stage for Reservoir A. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. With mitigation the strategy should have only slight negative effects on the local community in the short term. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity No effects anticipated. Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive /70/DG/xxx 91

93 Sutton And East Surrey Water 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Short term effects on the visual amenity of the North Kent Downs AONB and the High Weald AONB and on the setting of Reservoir A could arise from construction activities and the footprint of the upgraded WTW but these are unlikely to be widespread. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. No effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit from demand management options (metering and leakage reduction) through reduction in demand. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. Potential long term benefit from demand management options (metering and leakage reduction).. The proposed WTW is outside of the floodplain. No impact on flood risk is expected. Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting of the upgraded WTW could be improved by the use of appropriate building materials and a landscaping scheme. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the strategy should have only slight negative effects on landscape character in the short term. With mitigation the strategy should have only slight negative effects on surface water flows and quality /70/DG/xxx 92

94 Sutton And East Surrey Water 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions. Long term effects of strategy relate to the energy requirements for additional water pumping and treatment at Reservoir A. No effects anticipated. Pipeline construction associated with Reservoir A has the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Distribution mains will replace existing water mains and are not expected to have significant impact. No effects anticipated. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. With mitigation the strategy is likely to have slight negative effects due to the release of greenhouse gases. - - With appropriate mitigation the strategy is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage /70/DG/xxx 93

95 7 MITIGATION 7.1 INTRODUCTION The term mitigation encompasses any approach which is aimed at preventing, reducing or off-setting significant adverse sustainability effects that have been identified. In practice, a range of measures applying one or more of these approaches is likely to be considered in mitigating any significant adverse effects predicted. In addition, it is also important to consider measures aimed at enhancing positive effects. As such measures are generally referred to as mitigation measures. However, the emphasis should, in the first instance, be on proactive avoidance of adverse effects. Only once all alternative options or approaches to avoiding an effect have been examined should mitigation then examine ways of reducing the scale/importance of the effect. 7.2 MITIGATION MEASURES CONSIDERED INTEGRAL TO OPTIONS The assessments have been undertaken to identify residual effects, i.e. those likely to remain after reasonable mitigation. Generic mitigation measures (considered integral to all considered options) are described below. Air The main dust generating activities are likely to be those that involve earthworks associated with treatment works, and pipeline construction associated with the Reservoir A scheme. Mitigation is likely to be limited to use of good practice for dust suppression. Heritage / Archaeology Policy Planning Guidance 16 (PPG 16) sets out how archaeological remains should be preserved and recorded, and states that to inform planning decisions archaeological investigations should be carried out following a staged process. This usually requires desk based assessment followed by evaluation in the field. This could be a watching brief during ground works or trial trenching to evaluate the archaeological potential of an area. Following the results of the evaluation, an archaeological excavation may be required or, in the case of nationally important sites, preservation in situ. This is particularly likely if a Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) or any archaeology related to a SAM will be affected To support a planning application, it is required that the nature, extent and significance of an archaeological resource is understood, in order for a decision to be made regarding the need for preservation in situ or any other mitigation. Contaminated Land Site investigation requirements will depend on current and historical land uses. As a minimum, some limited sampling may be required to inform the classification of excavated material, whether for disposal or for re-use on site. A separate appraisal will be required following investigation to assess the volumes of waste and appropriate treatment and disposal options. Ecology Risks are highly option specific, but relate to the potential disturbance of protected species or habitats. Mitigation measures include: 94

96 Avoidance of sensitive habitats Timing of works with regards to protected species such as great crested newts, bats, dormice, badgers or reptiles Specific DEFRA licence requirements for works that may affect protected species such as badgers more specifically their sett, bats and their roosts, dormice, great crested newts, white clawed crayfish and otters; Specific mitigation measures for particular protected species e.g. translocations for reptiles, amphibians; Ecological watching briefs; Habitat creation to replace habitat lost; Requirement of fencing for protected species e.g. great crested newts; Sett relocation; and Mammal underpasses. Landscape All risk and mitigation measures are option specific. Effects on Local Communities The most significant potential negative impact will be exposure of residential property to high noise levels for long periods of time. Mitigation should consider ways to: Reduce the numbers of people affected by the increased noise; Reduce the level of increased noise these people are subjected to; Reduce the amount of time they are subjected to the increased noise Separation distance is generally a relatively inefficient method of noise mitigation. The major noise generating activities are likely to be those that involve earthworks associated with treatment works, earth bunds and pipeline construction. Because noise can travel over large distances, efforts should be made during construction to minimise noise levels locally using appropriately selected mitigation measures. Recreation Where temporary diversions or closure of public rights of way may be required during construction, this should be agreed in advance with the County Public Rights of Way Officer. Users should be given advance notice as directed by the Public Rights of Way Officer. No permanent footpath diversions or closures are expected to be required by the constrained options considered Users of other recreational amenities such as watersports or angling should be given advance warning of any disruption or closure of the amenity. Transport To minimise traffic disruption, no dig techniques should be used where this is appropriate for construction of pipelines across major roads. Work should be limited to off peak periods and school holidays wherever possible to minimise disruption for crossings of more major traffic routes. Temporary diversion routes could be used where pipelines run along stretches of minor road. Diversions should be minimised due to the increase in journey time. Signs giving advanced notice of works at the locations where they will be taking place. Signs warning of 95

97 delays and potential diversion routes located a suitable distance from the works when they are taking place. Where construction traffic affects residential roads, this should be limited to working hours. Water Quality Mitigation to protect surface and ground water quality during construction will be provided by adherence to the Environment Agency Pollution Prevention Guidelines (PPG) during construction. Flood Risk Planning Policy Statement 25: Development and Flood Risk (PPS25) PPS25 aims to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding and to direct development away from areas of high risk. Where new development is, exceptionally, necessary in such areas, the policy aims to make it safe, without increasing flood risk elsewhere, and, where possible, reducing flood risk overall. PPS25 also sets out that in identifying flood risk the predicted effects of climate change should be accounted for PPS25 requires that a Flood Risk Assessment (FRA) is provided to support planning applications for development located in Flood Zones 2 and 3; and all developments in Flood Zone 1 which have areas in excess of 1ha in area. Greenhouse Gas Emissions Generic mitigation includes limiting emissions from construction vehicles and plant by reducing journey numbers and times and by switching engines off when not in use. 7.3 SPECIFIC MITIGATION MEASURES FOR PREFERRED OPTION The following measures have been identified to mitigate the negative effects identified for the preferred strategy At the option implementation stage mitigation should be specified which reduces the generation of waste and encourages the re-use and recycling of waste. This could include mitigation which: Minimises the amount of excavated soil which requires disposal; Promotes the use of secondary aggregates, if possible; and Promotes the reuse and recycling of construction materials, where appropriate Proposed routes for pipelines, and locations and designs of buildings, plant and structures should be carefully selected so as to avoid any features of particular importance if possible, or to reduce the severity of potential effects The implementation of the preferred resource development option at Reservoir A may be subject to Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) under the Town and Country Planning (EIA) Regulations 1999 (SI 1999 No 293) as amended by the Town and Country Planning (EIA) (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (SI 2000 No 2876). Whether EIA will be a requirement will be subject to screening by the appropriate local planning authority (under regulation 5 of S.I. 1999). 96

98 8 IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING 8.1 The SEA Directive states that member states shall monitor the significant environmental effects of the implementation of plans and programmes to identify at an early stage unforeseen adverse effects, and to be able to undertake appropriate remedial action (Article 10.1). In addition, the Environmental Report should provide information on a description of the measures envisaged concerning monitoring (Annex I (i)) (Stage E). 8.2 This section documents how, once adopted, the environmental effects of implementing the strategy will be monitored against the predictions made by the SEA. The key principles of Implementation and Monitoring are to: Ensure that mitigation measures are fully implemented and are effective; Monitor all the significant environmental effects identified during assessment and documented in the Environmental Report. This includes all significant positive, adverse, foreseen and unforeseen environmental effects; Identify any unforeseen environmental effects; and Avoid duplication of monitoring by utilising existing monitoring programmes. 8.3 Monitoring is important in evaluating any foreseen or unforeseen cumulative effects and can also be used to address any uncertainties or gaps in the data through the provision of a more detailed baseline. 8.4 While there is potential for implementation of the preferred strategy to result in slight negative effects in the short term, associated with construction activities of Option 1.1 (Reservoir A), it is unlikely that implementation of the strategy will have any medium or long term cumulative effects on the baseline environment in or around the study area. However, in accordance with the legislation the environmental effects of the strategy will be monitored against criteria set by the framework of objectives, indicators and targets agreed during the scoping phase of the SEA (Table 4.14). The monitoring plan is provided in Table The Company will review and update the SEA alongside future updates of the Water Resources Management Plan, taking account of any future changes to the Company s preferred water resources strategy. Future revisions of the SEA will include an update of the baseline environmental assessment for the Company area and, where necessary, modifications to the monitoring plan for the next review period. 97

99 Table 8.1 Monitoring Plan SEA Objective Indicator(s) Summary of how monitoring will be undertaken 1. To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and other important habitats and species No. designated sites adversely affected Area of BAP priority habitats adversely affected No. protected and BAP priority species adversely affected Where designated sites are affected by construction of Option 1.1 review condition assessments (e.g. Natural England) to understand potential changes in quality and quantity of relevant habitats, resulting from construction activities. Where applicable maintain a balance sheet for protected sites and BAP habitats, accounting for scheme losses and compensatory habitat creation. 2. To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species No. designated sites adversely affected Area of BAP priority habitats adversely affected No. protected and BAP priority species adversely affected Where designated sites are affected by construction of Option 1.1 review condition assessments (e.g. Natural England) to understand potential changes in quality and quantity of relevant habitats, resulting from construction activities. Where applicable maintain a balance sheet for protected sites and BAP habitats, accounting for scheme losses and compensatory habitat creation. 3. To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4. To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5. To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6. To maintain and enhance landscape character 7. To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries Estimated No. vehicle trips associated with construction No. roads affected by closures, diversions or traffic controls required by construction. No. public rights of way affected by diversions or closures. No. waterbodies where recreational activities will be affected by temporary or permanent disruption or closure. Area of recreational and amenity facilities No. users of recreational and amenity facilities Area and quality of public open space No. earth heritage SSSI units or Regionally Important Geological Sites where condition is adversely affected No. AONB Designations adversely affected No. Proposed National Park designated areas adversely affected Adverse visual effect on landscape character Classification of salmonid fisheries Classification of freshwater fisheries Mobilisation and deposition of fine sediment Where applicable during construction of Option 1.1 maintain a register of closures, diversions and complaints associated with construction. Where applicable, maintain a register of recreation and amenity features affected by the construction works for Option 1.1. Where designated sites are affected during construction of Option 1.1 maintain a balance sheet for geological sites associated with assets. Review condition assessments (e.g. Natural England) to understand potential changes in quality, quantity and area of geological sites. Where applicable during construction of Option 1.1 review potential impact on landscape character. N/A to preferred strategy 98

100 Table 8.1 Monitoring Plan SEA Objective Indicator(s) Summary of how monitoring will be undertaken 8. To reduce contamination and safeguard soil quality and quantity 9. To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10. To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11. To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12. To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13. To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14. To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest 15. To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Area of Grade 1, 2 and 3a agricultural land damaged or destroyed Number of contaminated and potentially contaminated sites encountered Groundwater resource availability status Groundwater chemical quality Water resource availability status Chemical quality assessment Biological quality assessment Physical/geomorphological risk assessment River flow derived by rates of abstraction Risk of fluvial flooding to land, property and material assets Risk of flooding to land, property and material assets from groundwater Risk of flooding to land, property and material assets from surface water run-off Estimated No. vehicle trips associated with construction and operation of the water resource option Estimated carbon emissions derived from energy resource required from non-renewable sources Volume of chemical by-products Volume of raw materials used in construction and operation Volume of re-used or recycled materials used in construction and operation No. Scheduled Ancient Monuments or other sites of known archaeological remains and/or their settings adversely affected No. listed buildings and/or their settings adversely affected No. conservation areas, registered historic parks and gardens, historic landscape areas adversely affected by water resource option Effect on water availability derived by location and rates of abstraction Where applicable during construction of pipelines for Option 1.1, review Agricultural Land Classifications and maintain a contaminated site register. N/A to preferred strategy N/A to preferred strategy Carry out flood risk assessment for Option 1.1. Maintain record of carbon footprint associated with construction works for Option 1.1. Prepare and implement Waste Management Plan for construction of Option 1.1 Where applicable during construction of Option 1.1 maintain record of archaeological sites and listed buildings in vicinity of the works. N/A to preferred strategy 99

101 9 CONCLUSION 9.1 The Sutton and East Surrey Water Resource Plan has been the subject of Strategic Environmental Assessment. The SEA has identified a range of potential negative and positive effects for the identified supply-side and demand management options. 9.2 The preferred strategy for the Final WRMP is to increase the peak output of Reservoir A, to implement a programme to fit 32,000 new meters and to reduce leakage 12.5% of the distribution input between 2015 and The SEA has shown that the negative environmental effects of this strategy are considered to be of slight significance. 9.3 Short term effects are associated with construction activities that can be managed through careful planning and design. The only medium to long term effect is a slight negative impact on the production of greenhouse gases. There is potential for demand management, through implementation of metering and leakage reduction programmes, to have a medium to long term positive effect on water resources within the study area. 9.4 It is considered highly unlikely that the proposed plan will adversely affect the integrity of a European site as defined by the Habitats and Birds Directives. It is also considered unlikely that the proposed plan will have cumulative effects on the baseline environment with any other plans or programmes either within the Reservoir A area or the wider study area. 9.5 It is considered that the Final WRMP preferred option is supported by the findings of the SEA. 100

102 10 REFERENCES 1. Biodiversity Action Plan for Kent, 2. Crawley Borough Council, Crawley Local Plan. Adopted 3. Croydon Council, Croydon Replacement Unitary Development Plan. 4. Elmbridge Borough Council, Replacement Elmbridge Borough Local Plan. 5. Environment Agency, Medway Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy. Final Strategy. 6. Environment Agency, The Mole Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy. Consultation Document. 7. Environment Agency, The London Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy. Final Strategy. 8. Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, Epsom & Ewell District-wide Local Plan. 9. Greater London Authority, The London Plan: Spatial development strategy for Greater London. 10. Greater London Authority, GLA 2005 Round Interim Demographic Projections. 11. Hulme, M., Jenkins, G.J., Lu, X., Turnpenny, J.R., Mitchell, T.D., Jones, R.G., Lowe, J., Murphy, J.M., Hassell, D., Boorman, P., McDonald, R. and Hill, S.; Climate change scenarios for the United Kingdom: the UKCIP02 scientific report. 12. Kent County Council, The Kent & Medway Structure Plan. 13. London Biodiversity Partnership, London Borough of Sutton, Sutton Unitary Development Plan. 15. Merton Council, London Borough of Merton Unitary Development Plan. 16. Mole Valley District Council, Mole Valley Local Plan. 17. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, September A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive: Practical guidance on applying European Directive 2001/42/EC on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment, 18. Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, Reigate & Banstead Borough Local Plan. 19. Sevenoaks District Council, Sevenoaks District Local Plan. 20. South East Regional Assembly, The South East Plan. Draft. 21. Sussex Biodiversity Partnership. From Rio to Sussex, The Biodiversity Action Plan for East and West Sussex, and Brighton and Hove, Surrey County Council, Surrey Structure Plan. 101

103 23. Tandridge District Council, Tandridge District Local Plan. 24. West Sussex County Council, West Sussex Structure Plan. 102

104 11 APPENDICES 103

105 Appendix A. Review of Plans, Programmes and Policies

106 No. Environmental Themes arising from the review 1 Protect and enhance recreation and access to the countryside 2 Protect and enhance biodiversity 3 Protect and enhance endangered species and habitats 4 Avoid damage to and fragmentation of habitats 5 Maintain, improve and develop salmonid and freshwater fisheries 6 Maintain and enhance landscape character 7 Protect and enhance building sites and features of architectural, historical and archaeological interest and their settings 8 Improve and protect inland, coastal and groundwater quality 9 Reduce the risk of flooding 10 Respecting environmental limits of the water environment whilst responding to future challenges and demands on water 11 Promote water demand management, including metering 12 Reduce levels of leakage in water supply networks 13 Control surface water and ground water abstractions keeping them within their limits of replenishment 14 Reduce contributions to climate change by reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases 15 Conserve and where appropriate enhance the historic and cultural environment 16 Conserve soil resources and maintain their quality 17 Encourage the prudent use of natural resources 18 Minimise the use of energy and optimise the use of renewable resources 19 Maintain and improve air quality 20 Manage waste in accordance with the waste hierarchy in all sectors (i.e. household, commercial and industrial).

107 Plans, Programmes and Policy International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands 1971 EC Directive on Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EEC) EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC) Directive 2000/60/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council establishing a framework for the Community action in the field of water policy (EU Water Framework Directive or WFD) Directive 2006/118/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 12 December 2006 on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration Kyoto Protocol on Climate Change Nitrates Directive (91/676/EC) Air Quality Directives (96/62/EC and 99/30/EC) Freshwater Fisheries Directive (78/659/EEC) Key relevance for the SEA Promote the wise use of wetlands and their resources. Protection of Special Areas of Conservation. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: appropriate assessment and review of consents to abstract and discharge aims to improve water quality and quantity. Protection of Special Protection Areas. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Protection of all inland, transitional and coastal waters. Requires most aquatic ecosystems to meet good status by 2015 (also see section 3). Measures to prevent and control groundwater pollution. Sets criteria for the assessment of good groundwater chemical status. Complements Directive 2000/60/EC. Achieve a reduction in anthropogenic CO2 levels to at least 5% below 1990 levels by Reduce water pollution by nitrate from agricultural sources. Monitor and report ambient levels of air pollutants. Set ambient air limit values for nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen, sulphur dioxide, lead and particulate matter. Protection and improvement of fresh waters in order to support course and game fisheries. Water: appropriate assessment and review of consents to abstract and discharge aims to improve water quality and quantity. 8, 9, 13 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in ecological status of waterbodies. Water: improvements in water quality. 8 Water: improvements in groundwater quality. 14, 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. Material assets: investment in renewable energy sources and infrastructure such as wind or hydro-powered turbines. 8 Water: improvements in groundwater quality. 14 Population: protection of public health. Climatic factors: improved air quality. 2, 5, 8 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality.

108 Plans, Programmes and Policy Urban Waste Water treatment Directive (91/271/EEC) Waste Framework Directive (75/442/EC) Hazardous Waste Directive (91/689/EC) Bathing Water Quality Directive (76/160/EEC) Drinking Quality (98/86/EC) Water Directive EU 6 th Environmental Action Plan, September 2002 EU Sustainable Development Strategy, May 2001 EU Biodiversity Action Plan, February 1998 The European Landscape Convention 2006 The European Convention on the Protection of Archaeological Heritage (Revised) 2001 Key relevance for the SEA Ensure that all significant discharges of waste water are treated. Prevent or reduce adverse effects on the environment and risks to human health, brought about as a result of the management of waste. Ensure the correct management and regulation of hazardous waste. Protect public health and the environment from faecal pollution at bathing waters. Sets water quality objectives for compliance with essential quality and health parameters. Safeguard and promote the sustainable use of water intended for human consumption. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 8 % by 2008 to 2012 and target more radical global emission cuts in the order of 20 to 40 % by Avert the threats to the survival of many species and their habitats in Europe, protecting landscapes, the marine environment and soils. Sustainable use of natural resources. Policy framework to deliver sustainable development with particular action for climate change, health, natural resources, transport. Conservation of wild flora and fauna. Preventing biodiversity loss related to the management of water, soil, forests and wetlands. Preventing biodiversity loss across Europe and beyond. Protection, development and sustainable landscape management. Protection of archaeological heritage and promotion of public awareness. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 8 Water: improvements in inland and coastal water quality. 2, 8 General: improvements in environmental quality. 2, 8 General: improvements in environmental quality. 8 Population: protection of public health. Water: improvements in bathing water quality. 8, 10 Population: protection of public health. 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 14, 16, 17, 18 Water: improvements in drinking water quality, sustainable use of water resources. Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Material assets: protection of soil quality. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 3, 4, 8, 14, 17 Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. 2, 3, 4, 8, 10, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 6 Landscape: protection and development of landscape character. 7 Cultural heritage: protection and improved access to historic sites.

109 Plans, Programmes and Policy National Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 Section 74 Biological diversity The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 The Conservation (Natural Habitats, &c.) (Amendment) Regulations 2007 Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975 (as amended) Water Resources Act 1991 Natural Environment & Rural Communities Act 2006 Environment Act 1995 Environmental Protection Act 1990 Key relevance for the SEA Protection of AONB s. Protection of SSSIs. Protection of a list of species and habitats. Protection of wild birds and their eggs and nests. Protection of wild animals and plants. Specific protection of certain listed plants and species. Protection of SSSIs. Protection of European protected species and sites and specifically makes reference to the potential requirement of Appropriate Assessment for water abstraction and land use plans. Protection of salmon and freshwater fisheries. Sets out the responsibilities of the Environment Agency in relation to water pollution, flood defence, fisheries, navigation and in particular abstraction from controlled waters. The establishment of Natural England to be responsible for enhancing biodiversity and landscape in rural, urban and coastal areas and promoting access and recreation. The establishment of the Environment Agency to be responsible for environmental management in England & Wales. Integrated pollution control to prevent pollution from emissions to air, land or water from scheduled processes. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: appropriate assessment and review of consents to abstract and discharge aims to improve water quality and quantity. 5, 8 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 17 Water: improvements in water quality. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality and sustainable use of water resources. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 17 Landscape: protection of landscape character. Population: improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species, improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources, reduced flood risk. 8, 14, 16 Water: protection of coastal, inland and ground water quality. Climatic factors: protection of air quality. Material assets: protection of soil quality.

110 Plans, Programmes and Policy Protection of Badgers Act 1992 PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development, ODPM 1997 PPG2 Greenbelts, ODPM 1995 PPS3 Housing, ODPM 2006 PPS7 Sustainable Development in Rural Areas, ODPM 2004 PPS 9:Biodiversity and Geological Conservation, ODPM, 2005 PPS 10: Planning for Sustainable Waste Management, ODPM 2005 PPS 12: Local Development Frameworks, ODPM 2004 Key relevance for the SEA Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Protection of badgers. 3 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: badger populations protected. Provide for the needs of commercial and industrial development, whilst respecting environmental objectives, conservation priorities for the human, built, and natural environments, and taking care to safeguard designations of national and international importance. General presumption against inappropriate development in the Green Belt. Identifying suitable locations for housing development with regard to constraints or risks, such as physical access restrictions, contamination, stability, flood risk, the need to protect natural resources e.g. water and biodiversity. Protection of the open countryside for the benefit of all, offering the highest level of protection for the national level designations environment such as AONB and National Parks. Weight given to the protection of best and most versatile agricultural land and other valued environmental resources. Promote sustainable development by ensuring that the biological and geological environments are conserved and enhanced. Sets out the Government's policy to be taken into account by waste planning authorities and forms part of the national waste management plan for the UK. Policy on the preparation of local development documents which will comprise the local development framework. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 1, 6 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 9, 10, 15, 17 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 16, 17 Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 3, 4, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 17 Material assets: movement towards sustainable use of resources. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 15, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources.

111 Plans, Programmes and Policy PPG 13: Transport, ODPM 1994 PPG 15 Planning and the Historic Environment Key relevance for the SEA Integrate planning and transport at the national, regional, strategic and local level and to promote more sustainable transport choices both for carrying people and for moving freight. Promotes the protection of world heritage sites, features of archaeological and historic interest, listed buildings, conservation areas, parks and gardens, battlefields or the wider historic landscape. PPG 16 Archaeology Promotes the protection of archaeological interest particularly in situ preservation of nationally important archaeological remains and for the proper recording of other sites. PPG 17 Planning for open space, sport and recreation PPG 20: Coastal Planning, ODPM 1992 PPS 22: Renewable Energy 2004 PPS23 Planning & Pollution Control PPS25 Development and Flood Risk The Historic Environment: A Force for Our Future, DCMS 2001 Making Space for Water: Taking forward a new Government Strategy for flood and coastal erosion risk management, Defra 2004 National Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP Steering Group, 1994) Recognises the public value of open space. Promotes use of open space for recreation and guides the provision of new amenities. Protection and conservation of coasts and policies for managing flood risk, erosion and land instability as well as coastal protection and flood defence. Local authorities to seek greater use of renewable energy in new developments where appropriate. Policy to ensure the sustainable and beneficial use of land by encouraging reuse of previously developed land in preference to Greenfield sites. Identify and manage flood risk through sensible location of development Take account of climate change. Promotes protection and access to historic environment. Manage risks from flooding and coastal erosion to reduce the threat to people and their property; and to deliver the greatest environmental, social and economic benefit. Proposals for monitoring a long list of species to provide a health check on biodiversity within the UK. Production of action plans for species and habitats. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 17 Material assets: development of sustainable transport networks. Climatic factors: reduced greenhouse gas emissions. 7, 15 Cultural heritage: protection of historic sites. 7, 15 Cultural heritage: protection of historic sites. 1 Population: Improvements in access and recreation and health of population. 6, 9 Water: reduction in coastal flood risk. 14, 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. 8, 16 Water: protection of water quality and water resources. 9 Water: management of flood risk. Material Assets: restricted development within flood risk areas. 7, 15 Cultural heritage: protection and improved access to historic sites. 9 Water: reduced risk of flooding. 2, 3 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species.

112 Plans, Programmes and Policy Working with the Grain of Nature: A Biodiversity Strategy for England, 2002 UK Air Quality Strategy 2007 UK Sustainable Development Strategy, HM Government 2005 Sustainable Communities ODPM 2003 Plan, UK Climate Change Programme, DETR 2000 Consultation Draft: Better Sea Trout and Salmon Fisheries: Our Strategy , Environment Agency, National Trout and Grayling Fisheries Strategy, Environment Agency, 2003 Key relevance for the SEA To ensure biodiversity considerations become embedded in all main sectors of public policy. Conserve and enhance nature and ecosystems. Air quality standards and objectives. Policy framework for tackling fine particles. National policy measures which modelling indicates could give further health benefits and move closer towards meeting the Strategy s objectives. Sustainable consumption and production. Prepare for climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Natural resource protection and environmental enhancement. Create sustainable communities. Long term programme of action for delivering sustainable communities. Aims to tackle housing supply issues in the South East, low demand in other parts of the country, and the quality of our public spaces. Reduce UK greenhouse gas emissions to 12.5% below 1990 levels by and move towards the domestic goal of a 20% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions below 1990 levels by Protection of fisheries. Improved water quality. Better management of rivers and land. Improved conservation of trout and grayling. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protected and enhanced habitats and species. 14 Climatic factors: improved air quality. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 14, 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Material assets: investment in renewable energy sources and infrastructure such as wind or hydro-powered turbines. 1,5, 8 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 1, 5, 8 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water

113 Plans, Programmes and Policy Securing the Future UK Government Sustainable Development Strategy, Defra, 2005 Managing Water Abstraction: The Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy Process, Environment Agency, Updated 2002, along with the Interim Update produced in 2006 Future Water: The Governments Water Strategy for England, Defra, 2008 Directing the Flow: Priorities for Future Water Policy, Defra, 2002 Water Resources for the Future: A Strategy for England and Wales, Environment Agency, 2001 Key relevance for the SEA Supports sustainable consumption and production. Need to recognise climate change. Need to protect natural resources. Promotes licence trading to make efficient use of scarce resources. Supports introduction of time-limited licences. Improve quality of water environment and the ecology which it supports. Continue to provide high levels of drinking water quality. Sustainable management of risks from flooding and coastal erosion, with greater understanding and effective management of surface water. Ensure sustainable use of water resources, and implement fair, affordable and cost-reflective water charges. Cut greenhouse gas emissions. Embed continuous adaptation to climate change and other pressures across the water industry and water users. Need to reduce risk of long term effects that are difficult to reverse e.g. on groundwater. Efficient resource use is a priority, including leakage reduction. Need to take account of effects of climate change. Recognises the importance of the WFD. Precautionary principle should guide development. Water resources should be managed to prevent long term harm to the environment. Support twin track approach to resource management. Impact of abstraction on biodiversity must be carefully managed. Existing unsustainable abstractions should be reduced. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends quality, sustainable management of water resources. 14, 17, 18 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. 10, 11, 13, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. 8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 17 10, 11, 12, 13, 17 10, 11, 12, 13, 17 Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Water Resources for Reduce total levels of abstraction. 10, 11, 12, 13, Biodiversity, flora & fauna:

114 Plans, Programmes and Policy People and Environment: Developing our Water Resources Strategy for England and Wales Consultation document, Environment 2007 Agency Water Resources Planning Guideline, Environment Agency, 2007 Economics of Balancing Supply and Demand Guidelines, UKWIR A Better Place to Play: Strategy for Water Related Sport & Recreation , Environment Agency A Better Environment, Healthier Fisheries. Better Fisheries for our Nations: Our Strategy , Environment Agency Just Add Water: How Our Inland Waterways can do More for Rural Regeneration, Inland Waterways Amenity Advisory Council 2005 Taking Water Responsibly: Government Decisions Following Consultation on Changes to the Water Abstraction Licensing System in England and Wales, Defra 1999 Restoring Sustainable Abstraction Programme, Environment Agency 1999 Key relevance for the SEA Enhance water related biodiversity. Recognise challenges posed by climate change. Protect the water environment. Take account of the WFD. Manage leakage. Framework for water companies to follow in developing and presenting water resources plans. Sets out the stages to be followed by a water resources planner in order to develop a supply-demand balance plan. Creating a better place to play by improving the environment. Improving access for all. Making recreation sustainable. Promoting the outdoors. Improved fish stocks and a better environment for wildlife and people. More chances for more people to fish and fisheries performing better. Sustainable fisheries boosting the local economy. Inland waterways to facilitate rural regeneration promoting the use of waterside mix-use development or waterside hub to prospective developers. Administrative and legislative changes to the water abstraction licensing system in England and Wales. Identify and catalogue sites at risk from abstraction. Prioritising and progressively examining and resolving concerns. Environmental Potential to Influence Baseline theme Trends 17 protection of water dependent habitats and species. 10, 11,12,13, 17 10, 11,12,13, 17 Water: protection of water quality and water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 1 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. 1, 5 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 1, 6 Material assets: waterside development in rural areas. 10, 13 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: sustainable management of water resources. 10, 13 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries.

115 Plans, Programmes and Policy Maintaining Water Supply: The Environment Agency s advice to Ministers on the final water resource plans submitted by water companies as part of the 2004 periodic review, Environment Agency 2004 Water Industry Environmental Improvement Programme (AMP), Environment Agency Climate Change and The Historic Environment, English Heritage 2006 The Catchment Farming Initiative Regional England Sensitive Delivery Regional Planning Guidance for the South East (RPG9) Key relevance for the SEA This document recommended a number of actions for SESW: Finalise the current deployable output estimate; Consider the approach to metering; and Increase understanding of per capita consumption. Ensure existing and new assets are maintained and operated to preserve environmental performance. Ensure companies plan to provide sufficient water for customers, accounting for the needs of the environment. Reduce impact of abstractions and discharges on the environment, in particular to protect and improve rivers, wetlands, lakes, underground water and coastal waters, fisheries, and internationally and nationally important nature conservation sites. Reduce effects of eutrophication through controls on discharges. Secure sustainable long term solutions that are cost-effective in the sense of considering all the impacts. Ensure that the industry is prepared for the Water Framework Directive Protection of the historic environment from the impacts of climate change. To meet objectives of the Water Framework Directive and PSA targets for SSSIs by reducing diffuse source pollution from agriculture by encouraging catchment sensitive farming. Greenfield development should only be undertaken after other alternatives have been considered, and it should have full regard to social, environmental and transport costs of location. Supports techniques to improve water efficiency and the water environment, including biodiversity. The Region s biodiversity and landscape should be protected. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Water: sustainable management of water resources. 10, 11, 12, 13 Water: sustainable management of water resources. 3, 5, 8, 10, 13, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of water dependent habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 7, 15 Cultural heritage: protection of historic sites. 2, 3, 8, 16 Water: improvements in water quality. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character.

116 Plans, Programmes and Policy Draft South East Plan, SEERA, August 2007 Regional Economic Strategy for SE England, SEEDA Sustainable Communities in the South East: Building for the future, ODPM 2003 Seeing the Wood for the Trees: A forestry and woodlands framework for the South East Region Core Report Part of the Integrated Regional Framework 2004: A Better Quality of Life in the South East, SEERA, 2004 South East England Social Inclusion Statement, SEERA Draft Drought Plan for Southern Region, Environment Agency SEW Draft Drought Plan, SEW 2006 Key relevance for the SEA Promote sustainable water resource management, combining efficiency of use with new resource development. Encourage winter storage and reduce summer abstraction. General themes encourage environmental protection, sustainable development and economic growth. Encourages co-operation between local authorities, water companies and EA for the timely delivery of schemes such as Clay Hill. Increase gross value added per capita Increase productivity. Reduce the ecological footprint of the region. create sustainable communities which: are economically prosperous; have decent homes at affordable prices; safeguard the countryside; enjoy a welldesigned, accessible and pleasant living and working environment; are effectively and fairly governed with a strong sense of community. Protection of woodland and trees, especially ancient woodland. Ensure the SE is prepared for the implications of climate change and has the ability to supply water during critical periods. Improve water quality and resource management. Protect and enhance biodiversity. Promotes community involvement. Need to recognise impacts on vulnerable groups. Sets out triggers and communication responses to be undertaken by the Environment Agency in a drought situation. Notes the importance of inter-water company transfer of water to balance Environmental theme 2, 3, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 13, 15, 16, 17 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character 2 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: reducing ecological footprint. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 15, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Material assets: increased development of land with associated services and infrastructure. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 2, 8, 13, 17 Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Climatic factors: increased planning of water resources around predicted impacts of climate change. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. 15 Population: increased public involvement in development, increased social equality and health. 10, 11, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts. Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. 10, 11, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts.

117 Plans, Programmes and Policy Executive Summary Price Review Water Resources Plan, SEW 2004 Southern Water Draft Drought Plan for Consultation, Southern Water 2006 Sutton and East Surrey Water Plc: Drought Plan, Sutton and East Surrey Water 2006 Draft Statutory Drought Plan, Mid Kent Water 2006 State of the Environment 2007: An assessment of the environment in South East England, Environment Agency 2007 Water Resources for the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Southern Region, Environment Agency 2001 Key relevance for the SEA supply and demand. Sets out twin track approach measures to be employed in drought situation including hosepipe bans, reinstatement of disused sources, and extension of bulk supplies (among others). Aims to reduce deficit in northern region. Supports twin track policy. Leakage should not rise. Supports water metering. Working towards the least cost solution that also takes into account environmental concerns. Recognises uncertainties of climate change present challenges. Sets out demand and supply side intervention options for drought situations, including restrictions on use, mains pressure reduction, increased abstraction and re-commissioning unused sources. Sets out demand and supply side intervention options for drought situations, including restrictions on use, customer education, increased abstraction and re-commissioning unused sources. Sets out demand and supply side intervention options for drought situations, including restrictions on use, mains pressure reduction, increased abstraction and increase bulk supplies. Air quality has generally improved. Bathing water quality improved with all beaches meeting required standards. Urban rivers are improving in quality. Accessible natural green space makes up 7 per cent of the total area of the South East. 75 per cent of new homes in the South East were built on previously developed land in ,000 properties were calculated as at risk from. Recovery of 10% of current abstraction across the region. Recovery of unused licensed abstraction. Greater integration of the public water supply network. Also require: licence alterations, demand management, metering, leakage control, efficient use of water, infrastructure strengthening, supplies between companies, enhancing existing resources and new resource development. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. 10, 11, 12, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts. Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. Climatic factors: increased frequency of droughts. 10, 11, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts. Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. 10, 11, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts. Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. 10, 11, 17 Water: preserving quantity and quality of water during droughts. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 14, 17 Water Resources for Recovery of Ml/d of current 10, 11, 12, 13 Population: increasing awareness of water scarcity and actions required. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: recovery of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources and flood risk. Climatic factors: improvements in air quality. 10, 11, 12, 13 Water: sustainable management of water resources and flood risk. Water: sustainable management

118 Plans, Programmes and Policy the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Thames Region, Environment Agency 2001 Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues South East River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues Thames River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 Thames Region Catchment Flood Management Plan. Consultation document, Environment Agency, 2007 Countywide Surrey Structure Plan, Surrey County Council 2004 Surrey BAP, Surrey County Council 1999 Surrey Waste Local Plan, Surrey County Council 1997 Key relevance for the SEA abstraction across the region. New strategic water resources Leakage reduction Enhancement of public water supplies by up to 600 Ml/d above present levels by development of groundwater, the use of canals and enhancement of water transfers, new reservoir storage, reuse and recycling, and potentially desalination schemes. Increased water efficiency and water use minimisation. Clean water for drinking, bathing, communities and economic uses. Wiser, sustainable use of water. Better habitats for wildlife that lives in and around water. Protected and improved native aquatic wildlife. Protected natural landscapes and more opportunities for recreation. Clean water for drinking, bathing, communities and economic uses. Wiser, sustainable use of water. Better habitats for wildlife that lives in and around water. Protected and improved native aquatic wildlife. Protected natural landscapes and more opportunities for recreation. Flood defences cannot be built to protect everything Climate change will be the major cause of increased flood risk in the future The flood plain is our most important asset in managing flood risk Development and urban regeneration provide a crucial opportunity to manage the risk Conserve and enhance biodiversity and landscape, particularly in AONB s The character of waterways should be maintained. Protect abstractions and water resources. Protect and enhance the species and habitats listed within the plan. The adoption of waste management practices which are consistent with the principles of sustainable development. The achievement of the Best Practicable Environmental theme 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 10, 11, 12, 13, 17 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends of water resources and flood risk. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: improvements in habitats and water quality for aquatic biodiversity and fisheries. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. 9 Water: management of flood risk. 2, 4, 6, 10, 13, 17 Material Assets: restricted development within flood risk areas. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. 17 Material assets: development of waste management facilities.

119 Plans, Programmes and Policy The London Plan, Greater London Authority 2006 Early Alterations to the London Plan: housing provision targets, waste and minerals alterations, Greater London Authority 2006 Further Alterations to the London Plan, Greater London Authority 2006 Connecting with London s Nature: The Mayor s Biodiversity Strategy, Greater London Authority 2002 Action Today to Protect Tomorrow: The Mayor s Climate Change Action Plan, Greater London Authority 2007 Green light to clean power: The Mayor s Energy Strategy, Greater London Authority 2004 Rethinking Rubbish in London: The Mayor s Municipal Waste Key relevance for the SEA Environmental Option (BPEO) for dealing with the waste stream in question. The encouragement of practices consistent with the hierarchy of waste management. Create a cleaner, healthier and more attractive environment and protect green space. Promote environmental sustainability, including improvements in the use of energy, treatment of waste, reduction of noise pollution, improvement of air quality and promotion of biodiversity. Deal with flood risk and water resource issues at an early stage. Make the fullest and most sustainable use of resources including land, water, energy and construction materials. Environmental theme 2, 4, 6, 10, 13, 17 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Increased targets for housing provision. 10, 17 Water: increased demand for water. Create a cleaner, healthier and more attractive environment and protect green space. Promote environmental sustainability, including improvements in the use of energy, treatment of waste, reduction of noise pollution, improvement of air quality and promotion of biodiversity. Deal with flood risk and water resource issues at an early stage. Make the fullest and most sustainable use of resources including land, water, energy and construction materials. No overall loss of wildlife habitats. Open spaces are created and made accessible. Adoption to climate change and limiting further carbon emissions. Reduce contribution to global climate change. Tackle fuel poverty. Promote economic development through renewable and energy efficient technologies. Policies and proposals for reducing municipal waste and recycling. 2, 4, 6, 10, 13, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 1, 2, 3, 4 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduced carbon emissions. 17 Material assets: development of waste management facilities.

120 Plans, Programmes and Policy Management Strategy, Greater London Authority 2003 Making Waste Work in London: The Mayor s Business Waste Management Strategy, Greater London Authority 2007 Water matters: The Mayor s Draft Water Strategy, Greater London Authority 2007 Kent and Medway Structure Plan 2006 Kent and Medway Structure Plan, Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance, SPG1 Landscape Character, Kent County Council and Medway Council, 2003 Kent and Medway Structure Plan, Draft Supplementary Planning Guidance, SPG2 Biodiversity Conservation, Kent County Council and Medway Council, 2003 Kent BAP, Kent County Council, 1997 Kent Waste Local Plan, Kent County Key relevance for the SEA Policies and proposals for reducing business waste and recycling. Secure a fair share of water for London and London s water-related environment through the best use of the available water. Minimise the release of wastewater into the clean water environment. Reduce the threat to people and their property from flooding and to mitigate its effects. The character of the countryside, particularly within AONB s should not be harmed by development. Wildlife and habitats should be conserved and enhanced. New water supply developments should be the best environmental option, and there should be a demonstrable need for them. Long term impacts on aquifers need to be considered. New built developments maintain and, if appropriate, enhance landscape character. Use of existing building styles and materials in new built development. Agricultural and forestry practice does not disturb characteristic land cover and vegetation patterns or adversely impact on the contours and textures of the landscape and its ecological and cultural value. Ensure that development and structures in the landscape are subject to a visual impact assessment and carefully designed to minimise their impact on the landscape character Principles for planning proposals which have the potential to impact on wildlife, including ecological appraisal, survey, enhancement, mitigation and compensation. Protect and enhance the species and habitats listed within the plan. Improve environmental standards and conditions, to minimise environmental Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 17 Material assets: development of waste management facilities. 8, 9, 10, 17 Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources, management of flood risk. 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 13, 16, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of water resources. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 6 Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. 17 Material assets: development of waste management facilities.

121 Plans, Programmes and Policy Council, 1998 Rights of Way Improvement Plan for Kent (not published) East Sussex and Brighton and Hove Structure Plan West Sussex Structure Plan West Sussex Minerals and Waste Development Framework, West Sussex County Council From Rio to Sussex, Action for Biodiversity East Sussex Rights of Way Improvement Plan Key relevance for the SEA impact. Secure the provision and maintenance of sufficient capacity to deal with waste. Move away from reliance on landfill, towards alternatives which embrace reuse, recycling and waste to energy. Improvements to the Public Rights of Way Network. Encourage access to the countryside for utilitarian, leisure, health and recreational purposes. Encourage sustainable transport by delivering better networks for walkers, cyclists, horse riders and disabled people. Improve the safety of users on the rights of way network. Conserve existing water resources and reduce leakage as a first priority, with new resource development only once the former has been done. Protection of the landscape, tranquillity and biodiversity of the natural areas in the region. Changing views within an AONB is not acceptable. Protect the quality and quantity of ground and surface waters. Reduce leakage, manage demand and carefully consider storage and transfer options. Development should not be permitted outside built up areas unless it maintains and preferably enhances the habitats, species, landscape and tranquillity of rural areas. Provision of waste management facilities for waste collection, sorting, transfer, recycling and composting in appropriate locations to enable and encourage waste to be diverted away from landfill. Protect and enhance the species and habitats listed within the plan. Improve the bridleway and byway network. Improve access for all, especially for disabled people. Improve access to the countryside from urban areas. Provide a selection of long distance paths and circular routes. Reduce fragmentation of network. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 1 Population: Improvements in access and recreation and health of population. 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 12, 17 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 17 Climatic factors: reductions in carbon emissions. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of existing water resources. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. Water: improvements in water quality, sustainable management of water resources. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 17, 20 Material assets: development of waste management facilities. 2, 3, 4 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of habitats and species. 1 Population: Improvements in access and recreation and health of population. Climatic factors: reductions in carbon emissions.

122 Plans, Programmes and Policy Rights of Way Improvement plan, Consultation Draft, 2006, West Sussex County Council Drought Plan for Southern Region: Kent Area, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Southern Region: Sussex Area, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Southern Region: Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Environment Agency Drought Plan for Thames Region; South East Area, Environment Agency, April 2007 Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan Kent Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan Key relevance for the SEA To maximise the opportunities for access in and between the countryside and towns, in particular via the rights of way network, to meet the needs and demands of both current and potential users, now and in the future, while recognising the need to balance this access with the interests of those who live and work in the countryside and the management of vulnerable landscapes. Need to maintain ecological resources and water quality, even in drought situations. Sets out a monitoring strategy for drought situations. Considers environmental implications of drought orders. Need to maintain ecological resources and water quality, even in drought situations. Sets out a monitoring strategy for drought situations. Considers environmental implications of drought orders. Need to maintain ecological resources and water quality, even in drought situations. Sets out a monitoring strategy for drought situations. Considers environmental implications of drought orders. Need to maintain ecological resources and water quality, even in drought situations. Sets out a monitoring strategy for drought situations. Considers environmental implications of drought orders. The biodiversity of the Surrey Hills is enhanced through the management and extension of designated sites and other important habitats in the wider landscape. The historic and cultural heritage that defines the distinctive sense of place within the Surrey Hills is recorded, protected, managed and celebrated. New development enhances local character and has a minimal impact on the environmental quality of the area. Conserving and enhancing landscape character and diversity Conserving and enhancing biodiversity Conserving and celebrating the past Sustaining natural resources Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends 1 Population: Improvements in access and recreation and health of population. Climatic factors: reductions in carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 2, 4, 8, 10, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality. 2, 4, 8, 10, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality. 2, 4, 8, 10, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality. 2, 4, 8, 10, 17 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality. 1, 2, 6, 7 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Population: protection of access and recreation. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 1, 2, 6, 7 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Population: protection of access and recreation. Landscape: protection of landscape character. High Weald Area of Conservation and enhancement of 1, 2, 6, 7 Biodiversity, flora & fauna:

123 Plans, Programmes and Policy Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plan Local Crawley Local Development Framework, Crawley Borough Council Crawley Local Plan Adopted, Crawley Borough Council, 2000 Croydon Local Development Framework, Croydon Council Croydon Replacement Unitary Development Plan, Croydon Council, 2006 Elmbridge Borough Local Development Framework, Elmbridge Borough Council Key relevance for the SEA natural beauty. Maintaining the capacity of natural systems; minimizing resource consumption; and protecting and improving the quality of the natural and historic environment. In development, however principles are derived from the Crawley Local Plan (below). Promote sustainable development to enhance quality of life and the environment. Minimise the loss of non-renewable resources including energy, valuable sites for nature conservation and other urban open spaces. Minimise the generation of pollution to land, air and water in order to protect environmental resources and to contribute to the reduction of global warming. In development, however principles are derived from the Croydon Local Plan (below). Safeguard and enhance the open character of spaces of local amenity value on account of their sport, leisure, recreational, visual, ecological, historical, architectural, archaeological, educational, social cultural and agricultural qualities. Seek new publicly accessible open space and enhance existing provision and protect public rights of way. Protect important species and habitats and place a high value on the protection of trees, woodlands and hedgerows both for their wildlife and amenity value. Prevent pollution to protect amenity and the wider environment. Minimise the energy requirements of new developments and promote use of renewable energy technologies and sustainable materials. Promote safe and healthy communities, vibrant town centres and a strong local economy. Better transport connections, plenty of community facilities, affordable housing and efficient public services. Thriving and inclusive borough which integrates all sectors of the community. Retain attractive, green and unique character and reduce the impact of modern day living on the environment. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends protection of habitats and species. Population: protection of access and recreation. Landscape: protection of landscape character. 1, 2, 3, 4, 8, Population: Improvements in access and recreation. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 8, 14, 15, 17, 18 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. 1, 7, 14, 18 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of

124 Plans, Programmes and Policy Replacement Elmbridge Borough Local Plan, Elmbridge Borough Council, 2000 Epsom & Ewell Local Development Framework, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council Epsom & Ewell District-Wide Local Plan, Epsom & Ewell Borough Council, 2000 Merton Development Local Key relevance for the SEA Prevent material detriment to the environment, character or amenity of the area. Prevent unacceptable pressure on the existing and planned highway network, Green Belt, housing supply, local services or infrastructure. Maintain Green Belt boundaries. Provide and protect the required quantity, and improve the quality, of open spaces for residents, workers and visitors and improve access. Protect and enhance areas nationally, regionally or locally designated as sites of nature conservation interest. Adopt risk based approach to development in flood risk areas. Seek to protect important habitats and species, and where possible aim to provide opportunities to enhance biodiversity. Ensure infrastructure is provided in advance of, or at least in parallel with, development. Maximise use and accessibility of all community, recreational and cultural facilities, both indoor and outdoor, so all facilities are made as widely available and accessible as possible to all users. Make the Borough safe for residents and for visitors. Enable local housing needs to be met. Protect and enhance the quality of the built environment. Protect natural resources and enhance the quality of the natural environment. Encourage provision of an appropriate range of recreational, cultural and leisure facilities. Preserving and protecting valued features such as parts of the built Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. 1, 6, 10, 17 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. 1, 2, 3, 9 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. 1, 2, 3, 10, 17, 18 1, 9, 14, 17, 18 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage.

125 Plans, Programmes and Policy Framework, Merton Council London Borough of Merton Unitary Development Plan, Merton Council, 2003 Mole Valley Local Development Framework, Mole Valley District Council Mole Valley Local Plan, Mole Valley District Council, 2000 Reigate & Banstead Local Development Framework, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council Reigate & Banstead Borough Local Plan, Key relevance for the SEA environment and open spaces. Regenerating key areas and tackling imbalances between different parts of Merton. Tackling the effects of climate change: flooding, local energy supplies and effective waste management. Improving transport, especially to the Mitcham area. Improving people's environment and health, including providing a variety of new homes across the borough for families, first-time buyers and those on lower incomes. Urban areas should be main focus for development and Greenfield development should only take place after alternatives have been considered. Sufficient housing should be provided for all who need to live and work in the region. Better use should be made of the regions natural resources, its capacity to deliver essential water, energy and minerals, and its capability to handle its waste. The environment (heritage, landscape and biodiversity) should be protected and enhanced In production, however principles are derived from the Mole Valley Local Plan (below). Maintain and enhance the quality of the environment. Protect the Green Belt from inappropriate development and maintain the open rural character of the countryside. Make the best use of land within built-up areas while safeguarding their individual character, appearance and amenities. Protect the District s heritage from inappropriate development and encourage high standards of design and the creation of developments that are efficient and where possible accessible to all. Prioritise within environmental and infrastructure constraints development which responds to the needs of the District s population. In production, however principles are derived from the Reigate & Banstead Local Plan (below). Promote environmental quality. Preserve, conserve and enhance Environmental theme 1, 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 17 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. 1, 2, 3, 6, 7 Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. 2, 3, 5, 7 Population: Improvements in access and recreation.

126 Plans, Programmes and Policy Reigate & Banstead Borough Council, 2005 Sevenoaks District Council Local Plan, Adopted 2000 Sevenoaks District Council Local Development Framework, 2006 Sutton Local Development Framework, London Borough OF Sutton Sutton Unitary Development Plan, London Borough of Sutton, 2003 Tandridge Development Local Key relevance for the SEA traditional character of the countryside and the character and townscape of urban areas. Meet only those needs of the existing and future population, for development and the use of land. Ensure that developers make adequate provision for the effects of development on the infrastructure and amenities of surrounding area. Protect and conserve the natural environment including major landscape features, habitats, heaths, commons, open spaces, woodlands and tree cover. Promote sustainable development to ensure conservation of non-renewable natural resources. Maintain and enhance the quality, character and appearance of the environment for the benefit of all. Protection of AONB s. Minimise consumption of natural resources. Promote energy efficient development which maximises the use of sources of renewable energy. Secure the effective management and control of all sources of environmental pollution, and protect the environment as a natural resource and habitat. Enhance overall quality of environment through use of sustainable development principles including avoidance of areas at risk from flooding and managing risk of flooding and reduction of pollution. Maintain and enhance environment of rural and urban areas. In production, however principles are derived from the Crawley Local Plan (below). Conserving natural resources and energy, whilst protecting the quality of both the local and global environment. Limiting air, soil and water pollution to sustainable levels. Reducing greenhouse emissions through energy efficiency of buildings and transport Protecting natural habitats and the interests of nature conservation Reducing waste Preservation of cultural heritage. In development, however principles are derived from the Tandridge District Local Environmental theme 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 18 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Climatic factors: increase energy efficient development and encourage renewable energy technologies. 9, 6 Water: minimise flood risk. 2, 3, 7, 8, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18 Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage.

127 Plans, Programmes and Policy Framework, Tandridge District Council Tandridge District Local Plan, Tandridge District Council, 2001 The Mole Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency 2006 The Medway Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency 2005 Thames Corridor Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy, Environment Agency The River Mole Flood Risk Management Strategy Study, Environment Agency, 2006 The Medway Catchment Flood Management Plan, Environment Agency, Reigate Heath SSSI Water Level Key relevance for the SEA Plan (below). Maintain and enhance the quality of the District's environment and ensure growth and development are sustainable. Protect the Green Belt from inappropriate development and maintain the open and rural character of the countryside. Protect the District heritage from inappropriate development and encourage high standards of design and the creation of developments that are efficient and where possible accessible to all. Prioritise, within the District's environmental and infrastructure constraints, development which meets the needs of the District's population. Ensure adequate community and recreational facilities are maintained and provided within the District. Consideration given to new consumptive licence applications from the Confined Chalk and Lower Greensand and small scale abstractions from the Unconfined Chalk, but will be limited where groundwater levels have a direct influence on river flows. Surface water abstractions will be subject to a Hands-off Flow relating to flows in the Lower Thames. Important to maintain sufficient springflow from the Hastings Beds to maintain the ecological value of the Ashdown Forest valley bogs. Support licence reduction where water resources are under stress. Presumption against consumptive abstraction from chalk and lower greensand. Presumption against summer consumptive abstraction. Support improved water efficiency Promote licence trading. No economically viable flood alleviation schemes proposed for the Mole. Impacts of flood risk needs planning and management and adapt to the effects of climate change Strategic measures include storage, structural protection, land management and conveyance management. Anecdotal evidence of abstraction from the Folkestone Formation on the Lower Environmental theme 1, 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, 15, 17 2, 3, 10, 11, 13, 17 2, 3, 10, 11 13, 17 2, 3, 10, 11, 13, 17 Potential to Influence Baseline Trends Population: Improvements in access and recreation. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: preservation of water quality Climatic factors: reduce energy use and encourage renewable energy technologies and reduce carbon emissions. Landscape: protection of landscape character. Cultural heritage: protection of cultural heritage. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of water resources. Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection of habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of water resources. 9 Water: management of flood risk. Material Assets: restricted development within flood risk areas. 9 Water: management of flood risk. Material Assets: restricted development within flood risk areas. 2, 3, 4, 13 Biodiversity, flora & fauna: protection and improvement of

128 Plans, Programmes Key relevance for the SEA and Policy Management Plan Greensand has contributed to a reduction in groundwater levels by 6-8 m since the 1950 s. Abstraction likely to have impacted spring flows in nearby water courses and contributed to drying of surface water courses and ditches located within the SSSI. Proposed Restoring Sustainable Abstraction (RSA) investigation to determine whether abstractions are contributing to reduced groundwater levels. Proposed consultation with licence holders to discuss variation or surrender of groundwater abstraction licenses. Environmental theme Potential to Influence Baseline Trends habitats and species. Water: sustainable management of water resources.

129 Appendix B. List of Sites Designated for Nature Conservation

130 Sites of Special Scientific Interest Below is a list of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) that are within the boundaries of the Sutton and East Surrey Water Resource Zone (WRZ) Grid Reference SSSI Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing Polebrook Farm Scords Wood & Brockhoult Mount Westerham Mines Cowden Meadow Cowden Pound Pastures Croham Hurst Farthing Downs & Happy Valley Riddlesdown Glovers Wood Auclaye Godstone Ponds Clock House Brickworks Banstead Downs Blindley Heath Hackhurst & White Downs Bookham Commons Staffhurst Wood Quarry Hangers Lingfield Cernes Hedgecourt Ranmore Common Titsey Woods Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment Reigate Heath Vann Lake & Ockley Woods Leith Hill Woldingham & Oxted Downs Epsom & Ashtead Commons Ockham & Wisley Commons Chipstead Downs Esher Commons Special Areas of Conservation Below is a list of Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) that are within the boundaries of the Sutton and East Surrey Water resource area Grid Reference SAC Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing Mole Gap to Reigate Escarpment Special Protection Areas There are no Special Protection Areas (SPA) within the boundaries of the Sutton and East Surrey Water resource area. The table below lists details of SPAs that lie within 5km of the resource area boundary. Grid Reference SPA Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing South West London Waterbodies (within 5km of WRZ)

131 Ramsar Wetland Sites There are no Ramsar wetlands within the boundaries of the Sutton and East Surrey Water resource area. The table below lists details of Ramsar wetlands that lie within 5km of the resource area boundary. Grid Reference Ramsar Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing South West London Waterbodies (within 5km of WRZ) National Nature Reserves Grid Reference NNR Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing Ashtead Common Local Nature Reserves Grid Reference LNR Name Total Area (Ha) Easting Northing Bonesgate Open Space Selsdon Wood Wilderness Island Sutton Ecology Centre Grounds Roundshaw Downs Devonshire Avenue Nature Area Cuddington Meadows Foxley Wood Derwent Floodwash Hutchinson's Bank Wandle Valley Wetland Pyl Brook Morden Park The Spinney, Carshalton Spencer Road Wetlands Cherry Wood Ruffett and Big Woods River Mole Edolph's Copse Blindley Heath Ashtead Park Centenary Fields West End Common Ockham and Wisley Esher Common Hogsmill Lingfield Wildlife Area Reigate Heath Nore Hill Pinnacle Horton Country Park Staffhurst Wood, Lingfield Inholms Clay Pit Epsom Common Earlswood Common

132 Sites of Nature Conservation Importance SNCI Name Addlestead Wood Armitage Wood and Hamfield Shaw Ashtead Park Axeland Croft Shaw, Bannister Shaw & Gayhouse Furz Beggars Gill Wood Betchetsgreen Copse & Lag Copse Black Bushes Blue Anchor Wood Bore Place Ponds & Woods Britt's Wood Broadstone Wood Brown's Copse Bury Hill Wood Bushy Copse Butcherswood Bank Chalet Field Chalkpit Wood Chapel Copse Chapel Hill Chart Verge Chartham Park Cherkley Wood Chiddingstone Old Clay Pits ClarksLane towhite Lane Cloverhouse Meadows Cobbler's Gill Coltsford Mill Conduit Shaw Copper Coin Paddocks Copper Coin Pond Crab Wood and Coldblow Shaw Crockhamhill Common Etc. Cronklands Crooked River Meadow Crookedfield Shaw Cupids Coppice and Clacket Green Dodd's Coppice Duke's Copse Duke's Dene Scarp Durrants Wood Dwelly Swamp East Outwood Edolphs Copse Eight Acre Wood Ewood Copse Fishfold Wood/Pisley Copse Five Acre Shaw and Lodge Wood

133 SNCI Name Fosterdown and Tupwood Scrub Foxburrow Fields Frith Wood Frylands Wood Furze Wood Furzefield Wood Fylls Brook Garston's Copse Gilridge, Cobhambury & Shernden Woods, Gilridge Glebe Water and Moore's Shaw Glory Wood Godstone Cricket Field Graem Hendry Wood Great Earls Wood, Little Earls Wood & Merle Common Great Farleigh Green Greatpark Wood and The Gripes Greenhill Shaw Greenhurst Copse Greenwood Copse, Phillips Gill & Portland Hangers Grubbe Street Wood to Grubstreet Copse Hammond's Copse Hare Wood and Lodge Farm Shaw Harewood Fields Hatchland and Oxpasture Wood Hatchland Copse West Hawkesnest Ghyll Hawks Hill, Cherry Orchard Farm & Bocketts lane Hell Shaw Henfold Lake Fishery Hever Pasture High Chart Highlands Farm Hilly Field, Godstone Green Holbrook Wood Holehill Copse Holmethorpe Sandpits Complex Holmwood Park Honesland Wood Horleyland Wood Hornecourt Wood Hosey Common Westerham Kingland Copse and Knoll Copse Kitchen Copse Knoll Wood Leatherhead Common Leg of Mutton Wood, The Jordans & Jordans Wood Limpsfield Common Lingfield Orchid Meadow Little Wood Littlepark Wood

134 SNCI Name Long Hill Lord's Wood Lumberdine Wood and Ashen Shaw Manor Park Maple Wood Misbrooks Green Moorden Meadow, Chiddingstone Causeway Moorhouse Bank Common Mosshouse Gill Newdigate Brickworks Nore Hill Nower Wood Ockley Court Old Orchard & Pasture Nr Markbeech Osbrooks Outwood Common Owls Wood Pasture & Shaws Below Polebrook Farm Pasture & Woods Cowden Pound Pasture & Woods Etc. Nr Hobbs Hill Farm, Cowden Pendell Wood Piper's Wood Pitchers Wood Place Pond Pockmires Wood Ponds At Mowshurst Edenbridge Pound Wood Puplet Wood Reddings Wood Reffold's Copse Ricketts Wood Rider Gill River Eden & Environs River Mole, Leatherhead Robins Grove Wood & Rye Wood Rowley Wood Rowtye Wood Scarletts Pond Swamp & Cave, Cowden Slines Field Slines Oaks Southlands Wood Stonehouse Field Stonewall Park, Chiddingstone Hoath Strood Copse Swite's Wood Taylors Gill Teazles Wood Ten Acre Wood The Chart and Scearn Bank The Rookery

135 SNCI Name Tickfold Gill Titsey Plantation Tom's Field Wallis Wood Watts Hill to Moorhouse Bnk Weavers Wood Wet Wood Whyteleaf recreation Ground Willoughby Fields Wire Mill Lake & Wood Wood Field Woods & Pasture Etc. Cowden Woods South Of Chiddingstone Castle

136 Appendix C. List of Scheduled Ancient Monuments

137 List of Scheduled Ancient Monuments Grid Reference SAM Name Easting Northing Croham Hurst Round Barrow Round Barrows And Ancient Settlement, Farthing Down, Coulsdon Newe (Or Wide) Ditch, Riddlesdown Dovecote, Beddington Park Roman Villa E Of Beddington Park Milestone In Sutton High Street Milestone Outside No. 135 Cheam Road, Cheam Milestone In Brighton Road Late Bronze Age Enclosure At Queen Mary's Hospital, Carshalton Three Quadrangular Earthworks On Banstead Heath Three Quadrangular Earthworks On Banstead Heath Earthwork In Holt Wood Enclosure Sw Of South Tadworth Farm Earthworks Near St Giles' Church Camp In Ashtead Forest Three Quadrangular Earthworks On Banstead Heath West Humble Chapel Roman Villa In Ashtead Forest Village Cage And St Peter's Cross Home Farm Bridge, Hurst Green Tower Of Old Church, Ewell Camp At Squerryes Park Tumulus Ne Of Cherkley Court, Leatherhead Downs Earthworks In Henley Wood Remains Of Roman Villa, Titsey Park Morden Park Mound Stane Street Earthworks Of Surrey Iron Railway Site Of Manor House In Netherne Wood Reigate Castle Medieval Undercroft Between West Street And Slipshoe Street, Reigate The Priory, Reigate Starborough Castle Linear Earthwork 230m South West Of Covers Farm Linear Earthwork 230m South West Of Covers Farm Medieval Moated Site With Adjoining Paddock Boundaries, Lodge Farm, South Park Alderstead Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre At Merstham Alderstead Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre At Merstham Box Hill Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre Romano-Celtic Temple And Roman Road At Church Field, 150m North Of Church Wood Brockham Lime Works: Lime Kilns And Hearthstone Mine Bowl Barrow 150m East Of Buckland Corner: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Two Bowl Barrows 70m South Of Buckland Road: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow 130m South Of Buckland Road: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow 70m North Of Flanchford Road: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow 20m South Of Flanchford Road: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow On Earlswood Common 20m South Of Pendleton Road

138 Grid Reference SAM Name Easting Northing Bowl Barrow At The North End Of Hilly Field Bowl Barrow In South End Of Hilly Field Bowl Barrow 200m North Of Flanchford Road: Part Of Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow In The Glory Wood Bowl Barrow On Milton Heath Bowl Barrow And Later Beacon At Tumble Beacon Bowl Barrow: Part Of Leatherhead Down Round Barrow Cemetery Two Bowl Barrows: Part Of Leatherhead Down Round Barrow Cemetery Bowl Barrow On Box Hill, 250m North-West Of Boxhurst Bowl Barrow On Box Hill, 230m West Of Upper Farm Bungalow Anstiebury Camp: A Large Multivallate Hillfort South-East Of Crockers Farm Bowl Barrow In Ivy Mill Lane Bowl Barrow West Of Flanchford Road: Part Of The Reigate Heath Round Barrow Cemetery The Mount, Barrow Green The Mound, Walton Place Thunderfield Castle Medieval Moated Site Bletchingley Castle (Ringwork And Bailey) Medieval Moated Site, The Mounts, Pachesham Farm Medieval Moated Site, Lagham Manor, South Godstone Medieval Moated Site, Albury Farm, Merstham Medieval Settlement Remains 100m South East And 150m South West Of Oldlands Farm, Tinsley Green Medieval Settlement Remains 100m South East And 150m South West Of Oldlands Farm, Tinsley Green Bronze Age Enclosure On Nore Hill Iron Age Promontory Fort In Castlehill Wood Betchworth Castle Nonsuch Palace, Its Formal Gardens And Associated Remains, And Cuddington Medieval Settlement Nonsuch Palace, Its Formal Gardens And Associated Remains, And Cuddington Medieval Settlement Medieval Moated Site, Cudworth Manor Moated Site West Of Avenue Wood, Felbridge Roman Villa North Of Sandlands Grove Medieval Moated Site And Fishpond, Greatlee Wood, Effingham Junction Medieval Moated Site With Associated Fishponds, Flower Lane Medieval Or Early Post-Medieval Tannery, Scotchman's Copse Medieval Moated Site, North Of Oakdale Farm Medieval Moated Site At Leigh Place Large Multivallate Hillfort At War Coppice Camp Two Saxon Burial Mounds On Gally Hills Two Saxon Burial Mounds On Gally Hills, West Of Brighton Road Large Multivallate Hillfort At Dry Hill Camp Medieval Moated Site, Devils Den Fosterdown Or Pilgrim Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre Romano-British Villa At Chelsham Court Farm Reigate Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre Betchworth Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre Woldingham Fort: A London Mobilisation Centre 500m South Of Whistlers Wood Farm Lime Kilns At Betchworth Quarry Lime Kilns At Betchworth Quarry

139 Grid Reference SAM Name Easting Northing Lime Kilns At Betchworth Quarry Lime Kilns At Betchworth Quarry Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley Group Of Four World War II Fighter Pens At The Former Airfield of RAF Kenley

140 Appendix D. Environmental Quality Standards

141 Standards for Environment Agency chemical GQA GQA grade Dissolved Oxygen Biochemical Ammonia (% saturation) Oxygen Demand (mg N/l) 10 %-ile (mg/l) 90 %-ile 90 %-ile A B C D E F < Chemical grade Description Likely use and characteristics A Very good All abstractions Very good salmonid fisheries Cyprinid fisheries Natural ecosystems B Good All abstractions Salmonid fisheries Cyprinid fisheries Ecosystems at or close to natural C Fairly good Potable supply after advanced treatment Other abstractions Good cyprinid fisheries Natural ecosystems, or those corresponding to good cyprinid fisheries D Fair Potable supply after advanced treatment Other abstractions Fair cyprinid fisheries Impacted ecosystems E Poor Low grade abstraction for industry Fish absent or sporadically present, vulnerable to pollution** Impoverished ecosystems** F Bad Very polluted rivers which may cause nuisance Severely restricted ecosystems *Provided other standards are met **Where the grade is caused by discharges of organic pollution

142 Standards for Environment Agency biological GQA Grade EQI* for ASPT** EQI for number of Taxa Environmental quality A Very good B Good C Fairly good D Fair E Poor F - - Bad *EQI - Ecological Quality Indices ** ASPT Average Score per Taxon Standards for Environment Agency nutrient GQA GQA grade Phosphate mg/l Average Description 1 < 0.02 Very low Low Moderate High Very high 6 > 1.0 Excessively high GQA grade Nitrate mg/l Average Description 1 < 5 Very low Low Moderately low Moderate High 6 >40 Very high

143 Appendix E. Environmental Constraints Maps

144 Sutton And East Surrey Water Statutory Nature Conservation Designations

145 Sutton And East Surrey Water Non-Statutory Nature Conservation Designations

146 Sutton And East Surrey Water Biodiversity Action Plan Priority Habitats

147 Sutton And East Surrey Water Scheduled Ancient Monuments

148 Sutton And East Surrey Water Landscape Areas

149 Sutton And East Surrey Water Groundwater Nitrate Vulnerable Zones

150 Sutton And East Surrey Water Agricultural Land Classifications

151 Sutton And East Surrey Water Appendix F. Environmental Assessment of Options

152 Option 1.1: Increase capacity of Reservoir A SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Construction of the WTW and associated distribution mains may have an adverse impact on terrestrial biodiversity. Distribution mains will replace existing water mains and will have limited temporary impact on ecology. Construction of the new WTW will be within the existing SESW site area. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment. S ML To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. - 0 The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. No effects anticipated Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the local community To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity No effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

153 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries Short term affects on the visual amenity of the North Kent Downs AONB and the High Weald AONB as well as the setting of the reservoir itself could arise from construction activities and the footprint of the upgraded WTW but these are unlikely to be widespread. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting of the upgraded WTW could be improved by the use of appropriate building materials and a landscaping scheme. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character in the short term. - 0 Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. No effects anticipated No effects anticipated Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. Rates of drawdown within the reservoir could have an effect on marginal aquatic species but it is considered that this will not mark a significant change from the existing baseline conditions. There will be no impact on water quality within the reservoir. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on surface water flows and quality To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. The proposed WTW is outside of the floodplain. No impact on flood risk is expected.

154 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Long term effects of this option may relate to the energy requirements water pumping and treatment No effects anticipated Pipeline construction has the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Distribution mains will replace existing water mains and are not expected to have significant impact. No effects anticipated Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage. - 0

155 1.2 Raise Reservoir A SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme will involve raising the embankment by 3m. No other associated works to the WTW or distribution system would be involved. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species There construction phase may adversely effect the local SNCI as well as sensitive nondesignated habitats and species. By raising the reservoir water level existing terrestrial habitats will be damaged and destroyed through periodic inundation by storage water. This will lead to the permanent loss of habitats. Sensitive species will be vulnerable in the short term and to a lesser extent in the long term. No designated habitats will be affected by inundation. Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality. Mitigation may require compensation for any habitats damaged or destroyed through the scheme Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. It is anticipated that the option will have short to long term moderate effects on the terrestrial environment. With mitigation construction should have only moderate negative effects on the aquatic environment. No residual effect Raising the reservoir water level will increase the reservoir storage area to the benefit of aquatic biodiversity. No mitigation specified. Slight positive effect in the medium to long term. Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

156 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option The construction phase will involve raising the existing earth embankment. There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation the scheme should have only moderate negative effects on the local community To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction activities could require temporary closure of footpaths and / or disruption to recreational users of the reservoir. Where temporary footpath closure is required, diversions and advance notice should be given. This should be agreed with The County Public Rights of Way Officer as appropriate. Recreational users/ user groups should be given advance warning of any disruption to amenity. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on recreation and amenity facilities To maintain and enhance landscape character Impacts on the visual amenity of the North Kent Downs AONB and the High Weald AONB as well as the setting of the reservoir itself could arise from construction of the raised dam. No mitigation specified To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. No mitigation required. No residual effect. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality downstream from the reservoir. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. - 0

157 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality Abstraction from the River Eden will be within existing licence limits. There will be no impact on minimum river levels. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment and water quality. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on surface water flows and quality. No residual effect To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Raising the embankment will not increase existing flood risk to the catchment. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions. Increased output through water treatment works will increase long term emissions. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Temporary disruption to other users may be experienced during the construction phase. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. Construction works should be planned to minimise potential effects and other users consulted on any residual effects. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on other users of water bodies

158 Option 2.1 Scheme GW3 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme will involve construction of a new borehole within the existing SESW site area. The construction phase may have adverse effects on sensitive non-designated habitats and species. Mitigation could be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species No medium to long term effects are anticipated. The construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment including the River Mole LNR and receiving watercourses. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity The flows in the River are supported by springs from the unconfined aquifer. However, abstraction will not exceed existing licence limits and impact on river flows is not expected to be significant. There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No mitigation required. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction activities will be No mitigation required. No residual effect. limited to SESW site area. No impacts expected. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No residual effect. - 0 With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the local community. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

159 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries Short term affects on the visual amenity of the North Downs AONB could arise from construction activities but these are unlikely to be significant. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction phase may have adverse effects on the cyprinid fisheries of the River Mole and receiving watercourses. Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on fisheries To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality The flows in the river are supported by springs from the unconfined aquifer. However, No mitigation required. No residual effect. - 0 abstraction will not exceed existing licence limits and impact on river flow is not expected to be significant. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated as abstraction will be within existing license Construction phase may have adverse effects on surface water flows and quality. No mitigation required. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. No residual effect. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on fisheries. The flows in the river are supported by springs from the unconfined aquifer. However, abstraction will not exceed existing licence limits and impact on river flow is not expected to be significant. No mitigation required. No residual effect To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect.

160 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions. Energy requirements in the long term are not anticipated to significantly change. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

161 Option 2.2 Scheme GW4 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme will involve a new replacement borehole at Chalkpit Lane, a new raw water main to Duckpit Wood and new GAC treatment plant within existing site area. The construction phase may have adverse effects on sensitive non-designated habitats and species. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. - 0 Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No mitigation required. No residual effect. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction activities could require temporary closure of footpaths and / or disruption to recreational users of the area. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. Where temporary footpath closure is required, diversions and advance notice should be given. This should be agreed with The County Public Rights of Way Officer as appropriate. Recreational users/ user groups should be given advance warning of any disruption to amenity. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the local community. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on recreation and amenity facilities Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

162 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Short term affects on the visual amenity of the area could arise from construction activities but these are unlikely to be significant. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction phase may have adverse effects on fisheries of nearby water bodies. Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated as abstraction will be within existing license Construction phase may have adverse effects on surface water flows and quality. No mitigation required. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on fisheries. No residual effect. Abstraction will not exceed No mitigation required. No residual effect. existing licence limits and no significant impacts are expected. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions. Energy requirements in the long term are not anticipated to significantly change Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on fisheries. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases

163 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage. - 0

164 Option 2.3 Scheme GW5 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Works will involve lowering pump level and new GAC treatment plant within existing SESW site. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment. The construction phase may have adverse effects on sensitive non-designated habitats and species To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. - 0 Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No mitigation required. No residual effect. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity There is potential for Construction to follow current best practice With mitigation the scheme should have only construction to create a noise or guidelines for reducing noise, dust slight negative effects on the local dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. community. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

165 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term affects on the visual Construction activities may result in With mitigation the scheme should have only amenity of the area could arise temporary adverse effects on visual amenity slight negative effects on landscape from construction activities but that will be difficult to avoid other than character. these are unlikely to be through considerate site management. The significant. setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping No medium to long term effects scheme. are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated as abstraction will be within existing license Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No significant impact expected. No effects anticipated No significant construction impact. Energy requirements in the long term are not anticipated to significantly change. No significant construction impact. No mitigation required. No mitigation required. No mitigation required. No mitigation required. No residual effect. No residual effect. No residual effect. No residual effect. Marginal increase in energy requirement to abstract and treat additional water. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

166 Option 2.4 SchemeGW6 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme would involve the construction of a new ammonia removal and GAC plant within the existing SESW site area. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment. The construction phase may have adverse effects on sensitive non-designated habitats and species. - 0 No medium to long term effects are anticipated. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. - 0 Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No mitigation required. No residual effect. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity There is potential for Construction to follow current best practice With mitigation the scheme should have only construction to create a noise or guidelines for reducing noise, dust slight negative effects on the local dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. community. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

167 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Short term affects on the visual Construction activities may result in With mitigation the scheme should have only amenity of the area could arise temporary adverse effects on visual amenity slight negative effects on landscape from construction activities but that will be difficult to avoid other than character. these are unlikely to be through considerate site management. The significant. setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping No medium to long term effects scheme. are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated as No mitigation required. No residual effect. abstraction will be within existing license Abstraction will not exceed No mitigation required. No residual effect. existing licence quantities. No significant impact expected. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Additional treatment may result in a slight increase in the energy requirement of this source. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

168 Option 3.1 Scheme GW7 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme would involve increased abstraction from the unconfined chalk during periods of high groundwater to recharge the confined chalk aquifer for peak abstraction. Construction of two new recharge boreholes, one production borehole a pumping station and new 2.4km transfer pipeline would be required. Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. No medium to long term impacts are expected. - 0 Construction covers a large geographic area and is likely to have adverse effects on designated and sensitive nondesignated habitats and species. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. No medium to long term impacts are expected. - 0 Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No mitigation required. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the local community. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

169 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Short term affects on the visual Construction activities may result in With mitigation the scheme should have only amenity of the area could arise temporary adverse effects on visual amenity slight negative effects on landscape from construction activities but that will be difficult to avoid other than character. these are unlikely to be through considerate site management. The significant. setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping No medium to long term effects scheme. are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Abstraction will not exceed No mitigation required. No residual effect. existing licence quantities. No significant impact expected. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Additional energy requirements of pumping and treatment of water. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

170 Option 3.2 Scheme GW8 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme would involve increased abstraction from the unconfined chalk at Leatherhead during periods of high groundwater to recharge the confined chalk aquifer for peak abstraction. Construction of one new recharge borehole, a pumping station and new 13km transfer pipelines would be required. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. No mitigation required. No medium to long term impacts are expected Construction covers a large geographic area and is likely to have adverse effects on designated and sensitive nondesignated habitats and species. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Construction phase may have adverse effects on the aquatic environment. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. No medium to long term impacts are expected. - 0 Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No mitigation required. 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option There is potential for construction to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on the local community. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

171 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Pipeline routes may encounter areas of geological interest. Short term affects on the visual amenity of the area could arise from construction activities but these are unlikely to be significant. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. The transfer pipelines may have adverse effects on designated and sensitive non-designated habitats and species by affecting water quality and quantity. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. Assumed moderate negative effect. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Abstraction will not exceed existing licence quantities. No significant impact expected. No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated. No mitigation required. No residual effect. Additional energy requirements of pumping and treatment of water. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated. No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

172 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No effects anticipated. No mitigation required. No residual effect.

173 Option 3.3 Scheme GW9 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This scheme would involve increased abstraction from the unconfined chalk at Leatherhead during periods of high groundwater to recharge the lower greensand aquifer for peak abstraction. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. No mitigation required. No medium to long term impacts are expected.. Construction of one new recharge borehole, a pumping station and new 13km transfer pipelines would be required. - 0 Construction covers a large geographic area and is likely to have adverse effects on designated and sensitive nondesignated habitats and species. 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species Construction covers a large geographic area and is likely to have adverse effects on designated and sensitive nondesignated habitats and species by affecting water quality and quantity. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. No medium to long term impacts are expected To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities There is potential for Construction to follow current best practice With mitigation the scheme should have only construction to create a noise or guidelines for reducing noise, dust slight negative effects on the local dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. community. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. - 0 Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

174 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries Pipeline routes may encounter areas of geological interest. Short term affects on the visual amenity of the area could arise from construction activities but these are unlikely to be significant. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. The transfer pipelines may have adverse effects on designated and sensitive non-designated habitats and species by affecting water quality and quantity. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. Assumed moderate negative effect. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Abstraction will not exceed No mitigation required. No residual effect. existing licence quantities. No significant impact expected. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Additional energy requirements of pumping and treatment of water. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

175 Option 4.1 Bulk Supply from Thames Water SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect S ML 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species This option would involve a 30Ml/d transfer from Thames Water to the SESW supply area. This would meet demand growth in SESW and free up water stored within the reservoir for transfer to other water companies. Construction would involve a 6km transfer main from Merton to Cheam, a new 30Ml/d softening plant and 9km of distribution mains. This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term the scheme may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including terrestrial habitats under stress due to low water levels. Construction covers a large geographic area and is likely to have adverse effects on designated and sensitive nondesignated habitats and species by affecting water quality and quantity. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. No mitigation required. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. With mitigation construction is likely to have moderate negative effects on the terrestrial environment. Slight positive effect over the medium to long term With mitigation construction is likely to have moderate negative effects on the aquaitic environment This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term the scheme may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including aquatic habitats under stress due to low water levels. No mitigation required. Slight positive effect over the medium to long term Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

176 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries There is potential for Construction to follow current best practice With mitigation the scheme should have only construction to create a noise or guidelines for reducing noise, dust slight negative effects on the local dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. community. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Pipeline routes may encounter areas of geological interest. Short term affects on the visual amenity of the area could arise from construction activities but these are unlikely to be significant. No medium to long term effects are anticipated. The transfer pipelines may have adverse effects on designated and sensitive non-designated habitats and species by affecting water quality and quantity. This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term the scheme may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including aquatic habitats under stress due to low water levels Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies Construction activities may result in temporary adverse effects on visual amenity that will be difficult to avoid other than through considerate site management. The setting could be improved by the use of building materials and a landscaping scheme. Mitigation would be guided by further baseline studies which could include Phase I Habitat survey and species surveys. Assumed moderate negative effect. With mitigation the scheme should have only slight negative effects on landscape character. With mitigation construction should have only slight negative effects on the terrestrial environment To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term the scheme may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including aquatic habitats under stress due to low water levels. No mitigation required. No residual effect. 0 +

177 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies This option would allow the more strategic use of water resources in the region. In the long term the scheme may be a benefit to surface water flows within the SESW supply area, including aquatic habitats under stress due to low water levels. No mitigation required. No residual effect. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Additional energy requirements of pumping and treatment of water. Mitigation could include energy efficiency measures and supplying electricity from renewable sources. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. Construction activities have the potential to damage or destroy recorded or unrecorded archaeological artefacts and affect the setting of other features of cultural or archaeological interest. Mitigation is likely to be guided by further investigation into the baseline environment. No effects anticipated No mitigation required. No residual effect. With mitigation the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on the release of greenhouse gases. With appropriate mitigation developed the scheme is likely to have slight negative effects on cultural or archaeological heritage

178 Demand Option 5.1 Enhanced Metering 1 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Metering is in the built environment therefore negligible effects are anticipated. Potential for negligible construction related short term effects. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. There is potential for the installation of new meter boxes to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible short term effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand. 0 + Metering is in the built environment therefore negligible effects are anticipated Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand. 0 + Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

179 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions but this is expected to be negligible. Negligible effects anticipated Required works are likely to be in the built environment. Potential for effects on built heritage is expected to be negligible. Negligible effects anticipated Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to be negligible.

180 Demand Option 5.2 Enhanced Metering 2 SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Metering is in the built environment therefore negligible effects are anticipated. Potential for negligible construction related short term effects. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. There is potential for the installation of new meter boxes to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible effects anticipated. Negligible short term effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand. 0 + Metering is in the built environment therefore negligible effects are anticipated Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand. 0 + Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

181 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions but this is expected to be negligible. Negligible effects anticipated Required works are likely to be in the built environment. Potential for effects on built heritage is expected to be negligible. Negligible effects anticipated Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to be negligible.

182 Demand Option Schools Retrofit Programme SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Effects restricted to within school grounds therefore likely to be negligible to slight negative. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated Programmed to limit impact to operation of schools and to follow current best practice guidelines. Residual effect is negligible. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

183 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

184 Demand Option 6.2 Elderly Care Home Retrofit Programme SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Implementation effects restricted to within care homes therefore likely to be negligible to slight negative. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated Programmed to limit impact to operation of care homes and to follow current best practice guidelines. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Residual effect is negligible. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

185 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

186 Demand Option 6.3 General Non-household Programme SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Implementation effects restricted to within non household premises therefore likely to be negligible to slight negative. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated Programmed to limit impact on non household customers and to follow current best practice guidelines. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Residual effect is negligible. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

187 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

188 Demand Option Targeted Company Retrofit of Existing Households SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Implementation effects restricted to within household premises therefore likely to be negligible to slight negative. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated Programmed to limit impact on household customers and to follow current best practice guidelines. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Residual effect is negligible. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

189 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

190 Demand Option 6.5 Targeted Horticultural Management Plan SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

191 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

192 Demand Option Targeted DIY Retrofit of Existing Households SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Implementation effects restricted to within household premises therefore likely to be negligible to slight negative. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. Negligible effects anticipated Programmed to limit impact on household customers and to follow current best practice guidelines. Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Residual effect is negligible. S ML 5 To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. Negligible effects anticipated Potential long term benefit. Potential long term benefit. Negligible effects anticipated Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

193 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated Negligible effects anticipated

194 Demand Option 7.1 Leakage Reduction 1Ml/d SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Potential for short term effects on terrestrial environment relating to leakage repair. Potential for short term effects on the aquatic environment relating to leakage repair. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. There is potential for leakage repair to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. No significant effects anticipated. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the local community. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality No significant effects anticipated. Potential for negligible construction related short term effects only. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. No significant effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand 0 + Potential for short term effects on water quality relating to construction activities is negligible. Potential long term benefit due to Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic With mitigation negative effects on surface water flows and quality will be negligible. 0 + Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

195 reduction in demand environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No significant effects anticipated. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions but this is expected to be negligible. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to be negligible.

196 Demand Option 7.2 Leakage Reduction 2Ml/d SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Potential for short term effects on terrestrial environment relating to leakage repair. Potential for short term effects on the aquatic environment relating to leakage repair. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. There is potential for leakage repair to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. No significant effects anticipated. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the local community. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality No significant effects anticipated. Potential for negligible construction related short term effects only. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. No significant effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand 0 + Potential for short term effects on water quality relating to construction activities is negligible. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be With mitigation negative effects on surface water flows and quality will be negligible. 0 + Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

197 guided by further baseline studies. 11 To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies No significant effects anticipated. Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions but this is expected to be negligible. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to be negligible.

198 Demand Option 7.3 Leakage Reduction 4Ml/d SEA Objectives Potential Effect Mitigation Residual Effect Scale of Residual Effect 1 To protect and enhance terrestrial biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 2 To protect and enhance aquatic biodiversity including designated and important habitats and species 3 To minimise negative effects on local communities resulting from construction and operation of option 4 To protect and enhance recreation and amenity facilities Potential for short term effects on terrestrial environment relating to leakage repair. Potential for short term effects on the aquatic environment relating to leakage repair. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. There is potential for leakage repair to create a noise or dust nuisance or disrupt local traffic flow. No medium to long term effects are anticipated through operation. No significant effects anticipated. Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. Construction to follow current best practice guidelines for reducing noise, dust suppression and limiting vehicle emissions. Haulage routes for construction should be planned and agreed in advance. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the aquatic environment. With mitigation in place construction activities should have negligible to slight negative effects on the local community. S ML To protect and enhance geological and geomorphological diversity 6 To maintain and enhance landscape character 7 To maintain and improve salmonid and freshwater fisheries 8 To reduce contamination, safeguard soil quality and quantity 9 To protect and enhance groundwater quantity and quality 10 To protect and enhance surface water flows and quality No significant effects anticipated. Potential for negligible construction related short term effects only. Potential long term benefit due to increase water for aquatic biota is uncertain. No significant effects anticipated. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand 0 + Potential for short term effects on water quality relating to construction activities is negligible. Potential long term benefit due to reduction in demand Pollution Prevention Guidelines relating to working near to water should be followed during construction to protect the aquatic environment. Further mitigation may be guided by further baseline studies. With mitigation negative effects on surface water flows and quality will be negligible To minimise the risk of flooding taking account of climate No significant effects anticipated. Short term (S) 0-5 years; Medium to Long term (ML) 5-25 years. Assessment Scale: Major Negative, - - Moderate Negative, - Slight Negative, 0 Neutral, + Slight Positive, ++ Moderate Positive, +++ Major Positive

199 change 12 To reduce greenhouse gas emissions 13 To reduce the generation of waste and encourage re-use and recycling of waste 14 To protect and enhance sites and features of archaeological, historical and architectural interest and their settings 15 To minimise adverse effects to other abstractors and other commercial or private users of water bodies Construction activities including the use of plant and vehicles could lead to additional release of emissions but this is expected to be negligible. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. No significant effects anticipated. Mitigation should follow best practice such as keeping vehicles and plant well maintained and switching off when not in use. With mitigation the scheme is likely to be negligible.

200 Appendix G. Scoping Report Consultation

201 Comments Received from Scoping Report Consultation To date, consultation has been carried out with the relevant statutory bodies to obtain their views on the scope and level of detail of information to be included in the SEA. Consultation on the Scoping Report ran for 5 weeks from 12 September The key questions posed to consultees relate to the scope and level of detail of information to be included in the SEA, and are as follows: Consultation Question 1: Has the study area been adequately defined? Consultation Question 2: Are there any other organisations or individuals that should be consulted with regard to the water resource investigation at this stage? Consultation Question 3: Are there any other strategic options which should be considered at this stage? Consultation Question 4: Are there any other environmental issues in the study area that should be considered within the SEA, or are there any issues which should not have been scoped out? Consultation Question 5: Have all plans relevant to the water resource investigation been considered and have all the relevant themes been identified? Consultation Question 6: Is the baseline data collected at this stage of an appropriate level and depth in the context of the water resource investigation? Consultation Question 7: Have all significant opportunities and constraints been identified? Consultation Question 8: Are the draft SEA Objectives, Targets and Indicators proposed at this stage suitable in the context of the water resource investigation, and are there any objectives that should be removed or included? Consultation Question 9: Do you have any further comments on the proposed approach to and scope of the SEA? The pertinent comments from each organisation are summarised in the bullet points, with a summary of how these comments have been addressed in the SEA in bold italic text.

202 Environment Agency The comments received from the Environment Agency are summarised here: The study area is adequately defined in the SEA Scoping Report for the current situation. However, various potential resource development options are identified, some which appear to be outside the defined study area. It is not clear what the spatial or physical implications of these could be. It is important to include these within the defined study area and include information in the environmental baseline in order that the potential impacts of these options can be assessed and evaluated. The study area has now been extended to encompass strategy options outside of the SESW supply area. The environmental baseline has been revised to include the extended study area. For the purposes of the SEA, the statutory consultation bodies have been consulted in line with the requirements of the SEA Directive. No further action required. We would like consideration of the options detailed in our letter of the 25 May 2007 (ref. WRSE/SESW/Options). This includes options such as tariffs for metered customers and the adoption of the Code for Sustainable Homes. These initiatives have been considered in the development of the WRMP. It appears that all of the factors listed in the SEA Directive have been scoped into the SEA Scoping Report (Section 3.1), except for air quality which, according to Section 4.5, has been scoped out. The reason given for scoping out air quality is that the effects will be limited to the construction phase of the strategy options. However, SEA Objective 3 is wholly related to construction impacts and several of the indicators relate to factors that will impact on air quality i.e. dust and vehicle trips, as well as on local communities. An objective for air quality is also included (Objective 13). (See comments on consultation question 6 below). The SEA objectives have now been amended to reflect that air quality has been scoped out of the assessment. No baseline information is included on Material Assets, however, no reasons are given for excluding this factor. Issues that should possibly be considered under this heading include use of natural resources, waste and energy. Flood risk is also omitted and again no reasons are given for excluding this factor, although it is included as an SEA Objective. Baseline information for Material Assets and Flood Risk have now been provided. A number documents have been identified that should be reviewed and/or used to provide baseline information. The following documents have now been reviewed and the objectives of which are summarised in Appendix B. Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues South East River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 Water for Life and Livelihoods: River Basin Planning: Summary of Significant Water Management Issues Thames River Basin District, Environment Agency 2007 A Better Environment, Healthier Fisheries. Better Fisheries for our Nations: Our Strategy , Environment Agency Water Level Management Plans for relevant sites Thames Region Catchment Flood Management Plan. Consultation document, Environment Agency 2007 The Medway Catchment Flood Management Plan, Environment Agency 2004.

203 The River Mole Flood Risk Management Strategy Study, Environment Agency 2006 Early Alterations to the London Plan: housing provision targets, waste and minerals alterations, Greater London Authority 2006 Further Alterations to the London Plan, Greater London Authority 2006 Water Resources for the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Southern Region, Environment Agency 2001 Water Resources for the Future: A Summary of the Strategy for the Thames Region, Environment Agency 2001 Water Resources for People and Environment: Developing our Water Resources Strategy for England and Wales Consultation document, Environment Agency We are pleased to see that a sensible approach is being taken to the collection of baseline information i.e. only information relevant to the options under consideration has been collected. However, it should be noted, in line with our comments to consultation question 1, that baseline for the areas likely to be affected by the resource development options should be included. There are some omissions in baseline data which should be filled. There is no baseline data provided relating to flood risk. Water resource options should be located outside flood risk areas wherever possible and should not increase flood risk in line with PPS25 Development and Flood Risk. It is therefore important that the flood zones and particular issues relating to flood risk are identified for the study area. The baseline information has now been updated to reflect these comments. Relevant Water Framework Directive (WFD) compliant baseline information should be used in the SEA. For example, although the River Basin Management Plans have not yet been published, general information is available on the WFD e.g. WFD Risk Assessment Maps and River Basin District (RBD) (Article 5) Reports at: (scroll down to Thames for relevant information). Water Framework Directive baseline information has been reviewed and included in Section 4.2. The GQA figures provided for surface water quality are out of date. Up to date figures for 2006 can be obtained via our External Relations team. Surface water quality data has now been updated. Nitrate Vulnerable Zones (NVCs) are referred to in the environmental baseline but Nitrogen Sensitive Areas (NSAs) are not. These relate specifically to groundwater which is the primary resource in the SESW area. Reference has now been made to NSAs. However, it is noted that there are no NSAs within or near to the SEA study area. Despite the fact that objectives are proposed (Table 6.1) for recreation and amenity, navigation, waste, contaminated land and geology and geomorphology, there is no baseline information provided for these topics. The baseline information has now been updated to reflect these comments. The SEA Directive requires that the likely evolution of the relevant aspects of the current state of the environment without the implementation of the plan are described. This has not been done. It involves identifying the likely trends for all factors described in the baseline. For example, the baseline should identify the current state of the SACs, SPAs and SSSIs in the study area and the likely future state of these in order to provide baseline against which the impact of the plan can be accurately

204 assessed. Condition assessments of designated sites have been reviewed and the baseline information has now been updated. Table 5.1 is clearly set out and makes clear links between the key issues and opportunities and constraints for the SESW water resources plan. However, this table contains a relatively limited list of issues in relation to the issues identified in the set of objectives in Table 6.1. Flood risk is not highlighted as a key issue even though the resource development options have the potential to impact on or be impacted by flood risk. The Significant Water Management Issues (SWMIs) reports should be reviewed in order to identify the main pressures, risks and impacts for the study area in relation to water (see link to reports above). The key issues have been reviewed and updated with additional key issues identified. It is not clear why the targets are being related to environmental effects. Targets should be the end point which results from an objective being achieved and the accompanying indicator should measure how well the objective is being achieved. The zero targets proposed against objectives 1, 2 and 5 should therefore be amended. Many of the indicators and targets are vague i.e. degree of adverse effects, minimise adverse effects and are unlikely to be measurable. More specific indicators and targets should be developed which will help in the SEA assessment process. Objectives, Indicators and Targets have been reviewed and revised to ensure they are measurable. Although River Basin Management Plans (RBMPs) are not due to be produced until the end of 2008 and therefore specific Water Framework Directive (WFD) related objectives and indicators/targets are not yet available, SEA water related objectives should be developed bearing in mind the evidence that is currently available on WFD (see comments on consultation questions 6 and 7 above). Water related SEA Objectives have been revised to reflect the objectives of the relevant River Basin Management Plans. The indicators for Objective 3 require very specific information. We would question whether this information is available at this stage or whether this level of detail will only be available at EIA stage. The indicator for Objective 12 on flood risk is not clear or appropriate and is unlikely to be measurable. Indicators have been revised. An objective, indicator and target are included in Table 6.1 for air quality (Objective 13) despite the fact that this factor was scoped out in Section 4.5. This objective has been removed from the SEA. There is no mention of any intention to assess cumulative impacts. One of the advantages of the SEA process is that cumulative effects can be considered. The cumulative effects of the existing and proposed SESW resource development options and those of neighbouring water companies should be assessed. Water resource planning is currently underway for neighbouring strategies. Resource development options for these areas have not yet been released and therefore cumulative effects with these plans cannot be addressed in the Environmental Report at this stage. Natural England The comments received from the Environment Agency are summarised here: There should be reference within the summary of key environmental issues to opportunities for biodiversity enhancement. This has now been addressed within the Environmental Report.

205 Water availability - baseline data indicates CAMS status of overlicensed and overabstracted for catchments within the water company area (during low flow periods). The WRMP should consider how it might positively contribute to moving these classifications towards a more sustainable position of 'no water available'. This has now been addressed within the Environmental Report. Climate change - The SEA should consider the impact of the water resources plan in the light of climate change e.g. increased storminess and drought. Reduced water availability and water quality impacts at peak need to be factored into the water resources plan. This has now been addressed within the Environmental Report. When setting Targets against SEA Objectives, Indicators should relate to implementation of the overall plan (i.e a combinations of actions arising out of the plan) rather than individual options. Column 1 objectives repeatedly refers to enhancement but the indicators and targets only deal with protecting the status quo. If the objective is to enhance then the indicators and targets need to reflect that. Indicators and targets are a bit vague and not very measurable. The repeated use of the phrase 'degree of adverse effect on' is not very helpful. Targets of maximise/minimise are not specific or measurable. Objectives, Indicators and Targets have been reviewed and revised to ensure they are measurable. The review of plans programmes and policies should include reference to Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Management Plans and the England Catchment Sensitive Farming Delivery Initiative. These documents have now been reviewed and objectives are summarised in Appendix A.

206 Appendix H. Environmental Report Consultation

207 Comments Received from Environmental Report Consultation Consultation on Sutton and East Surrey Water s Water Resource Plan and associated Environmental Report ended on 1 st August The only comments relating to the Strategic Environmental Assessment were made by the Environment Agency. These are summarised below. The bold italic text explains how the comments have been addressed in this final version of the Environmental Report. Note that this final version has not been reissued for consultation. Environment Agency The comments received from the Environment Agency are summarised here: The EA considers that the Company s Strategic Environmental Assessment is comprehensive and clearly presented. However further work is required to include an assessment of any demand management options included in the Final WRMP. The SEA should also be updated to include proposals for ongoing monitoring of the impact of the Company s water resource strategy on the environment. An assessment of demand management options has now been included in the Strategic Environmental Assessment and documented fully in the Environmental Report. Section 8 of the Environmental Report has been included in the final version of the report to document the implementation and the ongoing monitoring of the impact of the Company s strategy on the environmental receptors considered in the baseline. The changes have been made to this final version of the Environmental Report which has not been reissued for consultation.

208 Appendix I. Discounted Options

209 Discounted Options The following options were included in the unconstrained options list of the WRMP but discarded on the grounds of water availability, cost or environmental effect. Effluent Reuse from New Properties in Horley Approximately 2,500 new homes will be built around Horley by These additional homes will generate additional effluent of approximately 0.5Ml/d that will be discharged into the River Mole. This additional inflow could be used as justification of an increased abstraction from the Company s unconfined chalk sources. However, this option has been discounted due to the low additional yield and the relatively high costs. The resource would also only be available once all 2,500 homes had been built. Effluent Reuse from River Mole and River Medway The reuse of treated effluent was considered from wastewater treatment works (WWTW) along the River Mole and River Medway. The River Mole is a tributary of the Thames and is classified as having no water available; therefore all effluent reuse options. Effluent discharges into the River Medway are already effectively effluent reuse schemes as they support downstream abstractions. Any utilisation of the effluent from these works would be to the detriment of the downstream abstractions such that any new effluent reuse schemes are unviable. Mole Valley flood water storage The Fetcham Flood Alleviation Scheme carried out for the EA investigated options to protect properties in Fetcham and Leatherhead from flooding from the River Mole. These options have been reviewed by the EA to consider if the proposed floodwater storage could also be used as an additional water resource. The flooding of these areas would lead to increased risk of groundwater pollution and the proposed development of the area would also restrict the potential for additional future abstractions. The report concluded that there were no economically viable flood water storage options along the Mole valley. Floodwater storage incorporating disused sand pits Consideration has been given to utilising the sand and gravel pits (excavated in the Folkestone Beds of the Lower Greensand) near the river Mole as possible sites for flood water storage, when sand extraction ceases in The stored floodwater could then be used as a water resource in the summer. The pits are excavated in the Folkestone Beds of the Lower Greensand and are understood to be in direct hydraulic connection with a tributary of the River Mole which rises on the Folkestone Beds immediately to the east of the sand pits and then flows south over the Hythe Beds and Atherfield Clay to the River Mole. It is therefore likely that any flood waters or water pumped from the River Mole to the sand pits would drain back into the Mole via this tributary stream and therefore would not be available for summer abstraction unless the pits were sealed. This is not considered to be a feasible solution and this option has been ruled out on this basis.

210

211