Source · Select Committees · Environmental Audit Committee
Recommendation 39
39
Accepted
Paragraph: 205
We recommend that the Environment Agency urgently review its practices in auditing the self-monitoring of...
Recommendation
We recommend that the Environment Agency urgently review its practices in auditing the self-monitoring of wastewater treatment works by water companies. The Agency should also review its approach to enforcement and seek to reduce the interval between detection of permit breaches and prosecution.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government states that the National Planning Policy Framework already makes clear that major developments should incorporate sustainable drainage systems and that they will ensure that the Planning Practice Guidance reflects the position on the use of porous or permeable surfaces and prior approval requirement in relation to flood risk where relevant.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
205
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government · verbatim extract
Accepted
The Government agrees with this recommendation. The Environment Agency is currently reviewing its practices in the auditing of self-monitoring of wastewater treatment works by water companies through the Improving Water Company Performance Taskforce. The Taskforce is already delivering with new audit training for officers beginning in early March. The work will continue throughout this year. The new requirement under the Environment Act to provide real-time monitoring will also provide new intelligence to support the Environment Agency’s regulatory work, including investigations into permit breaches. The Government has been repeatedly clear that any issues of non-compliance need to be urgently addressed and remains in contact with the regulators about any fines, prosecutions or other enforcement action that is deemed necessary.
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