Water abstraction rights – have your say

The EA (Environment Agency) is seeking views on a proposed framework that will guide how water abstraction rights are assessed and allocated for future strategic water projects in England.

The aim is to ensure fair access to water without affecting existing rights or harming the environment.

What is the EA proposing?

Under the proposals, regional water resources groups (or future regional water planning authorities) would be encouraged to explore collaborative solutions to avoid competing demands.

The proposals focus on the delivery of national critical infrastructure and set out how competing demands are assessed including a hierarchy of use. For example:

1. Big projects for public water supply
2. Other national critical infrastructure projects such as power stations or data centres
3. High priority policy objectives such as food production
4. Other applications

Agriculture relies heavily on water abstraction from rivers, streams, and groundwater.

These changes could affect farmers’ ability to secure licences for future water needs. It is vital that farmers’ interests are represented so they are not disadvantaged compared to other sectors such as energy or industry in accessing the future water they need.

The EA intends for the framework to be compatible with the EPR (Environmental Permitting Regulations), into which the abstraction licensing system is proposed to be integrated.

What happens next?

The consultation closes on 16 February 2026.

The NFU is reviewing the proposals in detail and will be submitting a response. We are keen to hear from members to ensure farmers’ views are reflected before 2 February 2026.