Source · Select Committees · Public Accounts Committee
Recommendation 14
14
Acknowledged
Lack of water infrastructure delays critical housing and development projects across regions.
Conclusion
Defra told us that the importance of water to big investment and development opportunities was clear.36 But Water UK told us a lack of water in Cambridge had delayed the building of a new cancer hospital.37 The EA told us it had had to do a lot of work with local authorities and water companies to develop a plan which would allow for building 50,000 homes in and around Cambridge.38 The EA told us it has a statutory obligation to support sustainable development, but has nevertheless in some cases objected to new development because water companies do not have the infrastructure to cope with increased demand. It told us that in Oxford, this delayed the building of 7,000 homes, which the EA acknowledged was “a very big act by us”.39
Government Response Summary
Defra, the EA, and Ofwat are working together to ensure that water resources are taken into account in planning decisions and a minister-led taskforce has been set up for high-profile infrastructure projects.
Government Response
Acknowledged
HM Government
Acknowledged
The Government recognises the importance of water to big investment and development opportunities. Defra, the EA, and Ofwat are working together to ensure that water resources are taken into account in planning decisions. The Government has also set up a minister-led taskforce for high-profile infrastructure projects, working to ensure they can be built quickly. The Government is committed to working with local authorities and water companies to ensure that new homes and businesses have access to a reliable water supply.