Written question WQ87953

Whilst Welsh Government does not have a formal role in the gated stages of the infrastructure proposals considered by RAPID, Natural Resources Wales contributes to the assessment of projects and are members of the RAPID advisory group.

Welsh Government officials also meet regularly with RAPID and NRW to ensure the Welsh position is fully understood.

Welsh Government officials were not present at the meeting of the Wales Water Management Forum on 12 May 2022, this is not how Welsh Government’s representations are made.

Our position is set out clearly in Welsh Government’s guiding principles for developing Water Resources Management Plans (WRMPs):

Any proposal for a new or modification to an existing water transfer agreement from a water resource zone in Wales to a water resource zone in England (or a water resource source which might be transferred through Wales) to be subject to a detailed analysis and explanation of the following:

• the economic, environmental and multi benefits for Welsh citizens;

• any risk of deterioration of water body status and/or causing any adverse effects to designated sites or in the catchment and/or preventing biodiversity and resilience of ecosystems, within the areas / water resource zones affected by its implementation in Wales;

• there is sufficient water in the donor water resource zone at no additional cost for current and potential future users in Wales (allowing for economic growth and development), including private water supplies and all other cross sector water use; and

• the Welsh Government’s statutory targets to reduce greenhouse gases: proposals should include an assessment of their carbon impact in Wales from the outset.

We are satisfied that those who, unlike Welsh Government, have a formal role in the gated process are fully aware of this position.

Any final decision will be made through water resource management plans, and any subsequent applications for local planning and environmental consents.