Planning Policy – Water Neutrality in Sussex

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Natural England Position Statement

In September 2021, Natural England published a Position Statement for the Sussex North Water Resource Zone, covering Horsham, Crawley, Chichester (north), and parts of the South Downs National Park.

They confirmed that current groundwater abstraction in the zone cannot be ruled out as harming the Arun Valley’s protected habitats (Special Protection Area, Special Area of Conservation, and Ramsar site).

As a result, all new developments in the affected zone must demonstrate water neutrality to comply with the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017.

Read Natural England’s Position Statement

What Is Water Neutrality?

Water neutrality means that after a new development is complete, the total water demand in the supply zone is no greater than before the development took place. This can be achieved through a combination of:

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Water efficiency

e.g. low-flow taps, efficient appliances

Reuse

e.g. rainwater harvesting, greywater recycling

Offsetting

e.g. purchasing water credits, retrofitting existing buildings

Where Does It Apply?

Water neutrality requirements apply to developments within the Sussex North Water Resource Zone, which includes:

  • Horsham District
  • Crawley Borough
  • Northern Chichester parishes
  • Parts of the South Downs National Park

If you are unsure whether your site is within the zone, please click here to access the SNWRZ map

What Developers Must Provide

1. Water Neutrality Statement

A formal assessment demonstrating:

  • Baseline water use of the site

  • Projected use after development

  • Measures to reduce and/or offset demand

2. Water Efficiency Measures

Developments are expected to integrate best-practice water saving technology, aiming for significantly reduced litres-per-person-per-day.

3. Offsetting (If Needed)

If on-site savings are not enough, developers may need to offset through schemes such as retrofitting or Sussex North Offsetting Water Scheme (SNOWS).

4. Policy Compliance

Applications must align with:

  • Natural England’s Position Statement (2021)
  • Natural England’s Advice Note (2022)
  • Local Authority requirements (Horsham, Crawley, Chichester, South Downs)

Ready to Get Started?

Reach out to our team today and discover how our Water Credit programme can support your project.

Call us on 07872 518110 or email kevin@sussexwaterneutrality.co.uk

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