Water Resources Act 1991

Royal Coat of Arms of the United Kingdom (variant 1, 1952-2022)

The Water Resources Act 1991 is a significant piece of legislation in the United Kingdom that governs the management and protection of water resources. This Act consolidates previous water legislation and introduces new provisions to ensure the sustainable use and protection of water resources.

Provisions of the Act

The Water Resources Act 1991 includes several key provisions:

Water Quality

The Act sets out measures to maintain and improve the quality of water in rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. It establishes standards for water pollution control and provides the framework for the regulation of discharges into water bodies.

Water Resources Management

The Act provides for the management of water resources, including the abstraction and impoundment of water. It requires individuals and organizations to obtain licenses for activities that may affect water resources, such as water abstraction.

Flood Defence

The Act includes provisions for the management of flood risks. It outlines the responsibilities of various authorities, including the Environment Agency, in the construction and maintenance of flood defences.

Fisheries

The Act contains provisions related to the management and conservation of fisheries. It includes measures to protect fish habitats and regulate fishing activities to ensure sustainable fish populations.

Enforcement and Penalties

The Act grants powers to regulatory bodies to enforce its provisions. It includes penalties for non-compliance, such as fines and imprisonment for serious offences.

Regulatory Bodies

The primary regulatory body responsible for enforcing the Water Resources Act 1991 is the Environment Agency. The Agency is tasked with monitoring water quality, issuing licenses, and taking enforcement actions against violators.

Amendments and Related Legislation

The Water Resources Act 1991 has been amended by subsequent legislation to address emerging issues and improve regulatory frameworks. Notable amendments include the Water Act 2003 and the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.

Impact

The Water Resources Act 1991 has played a crucial role in improving water quality and managing water resources in the United Kingdom. It has contributed to the reduction of water pollution and the sustainable management of water resources.

See Also

• Environment Agency
• Water pollution
• Flood defence
• Fisheries management
• Water Act 2003
• Flood and Water Management Act 2010