Will the Welsh Government provide an update on the progress made to address the numerous planning applications delayed by phosphate regulations in the Usk and Wye special area of conservation?
For planning applications with implications for the public sewer, planning guidance is being prepared on managing nutrient levels in special area of conservation (SAC) rivers without compromising the delivery of development. Whilst the guidance has a particular focus on establishing pathways for the delivery of affordable housing, it will be applicable to all forms of development and emphasises how development, when considered alongside the activity of other relevant stakeholders, can play a role in improving water quality and the restoration of SAC rivers. A draft document was subject to informal stakeholder input earlier this year and the final guidance is under consideration.
Planning applications for agricultural development that have implications for water quality as a result of spreading of organic material to land will benefit from a review that is currently underway. The review is looking at the legislative framework around spreading to land, including spreading of digestate from anaerobic digestors.
Nutrient management boards and local planning authorities continue their work to coordinate actions by the development and agricultural sectors. The water companies are similarly proceeding with their investment programmes for sewage infrastructure and Natural Resources Wales is reviewing permits and keeping guidance up to date.