Affinity Water has published its final Water Resources Management Plan 2024 (WRMP24) following approval by the Defra Secretary of State, Steve Reed.

The plan outlines how Affinity Water will secure long-term water supply, adapt to climate challenges and reduce environmental impacts, while ensuring affordability.

Key issues addressed in the final WRMP24 include:

Abstraction Reduction & Environmental Goals:

In response to feedback, abstraction reductions have been fast-tracked in critical areas, mitigating climate change impacts. By fully utilising the Grafham to Sundon transfer until 2032, Affinity Water aims to reduce reliance on Chalk groundwater abstraction and leave more water in the environment to help support river flows.

Collaboration with the Chalk Streams First initiative has led to clearer strategies for reducing abstraction in the upper reaches of the Lee and Colne rivers, with new technical feedback to quantify flow improvements.

Demand Management & Population Growth:

A comprehensive demand management programme, including leakage reduction (50% reduction goal by 2050), smart metering and water efficiency campaigns, is central to reducing water demand. The plan aims to install c.1.5 million smart meters by 2035, support businesses with water-saving initiatives and meet the 110 litres per person per day consumption (PCC) target by 2050.

From 2025, the programme will ramp up with active leakage control, business audits and government-led water efficiency policies.

Infrastructure Connectivity & Strategic Schemes:

Key infrastructure projects are planned to improve water connectivity across the region and increase resilience against drought. For instance, new connections between Affinity Water’s communities will enable better water transfer to where it is needed most, including downstream network improvements to support strategic schemes like the Grand Union Canal (GUC) Strategic Resource Option (SRO) and the Thames to Affinity transfer.

By 2032, the Grand Union Canal SRO will be operational, delivering up to 100Ml/d of treated water from Severn Trent’s Minworth site, providing much-needed resources for the region.

New Supply Sources & Strategic Water Transfers:

To meet future demand and reduce environmental pressures, Affinity Water will draw on new supply sources. These include upstream transfers from the River Thames and the Grand Union Canal SRO (up to 100 Ml/d). These transfers planned to be in place by 2032, will help support Chalk groundwater abstraction reductions and environmental goals across the region.

Further phases, including the Thames to Affinity Transfer SRO and the South East Strategic Reservoir (SESRO), will be phased in post-2040, ensuring continued supply resilience.

Costs, Affordability & Customer Support:

Costs have been updated to reflect feedback from Ofwat, ensuring the final plan delivers value for money. Strategic projects like the smart metering rollout and the mains renewal programme will be phased to minimise costs and disruption while advancing leakage reduction.

Affinity Water has also committed to collaborating with local businesses to encourage water recycling and efficiency practices, supported by government incentives and regulations.

Carbon & Nature-Based Solutions:

The WRMP incorporates a whole-life carbon assessment methodology, supporting Affinity Water’s journey toward net-zero emissions. The plan outlines how reducing carbon in water supply and demand management strategies will contribute to broader climate goals.

Nature-based solutions, including catchment management, are key components of the environmental strategy, with efforts aimed at enhancing biodiversity and natural capital.

Our plan will lead our long-term water resources strategy for the period 2025 to 2075 and will be updated again in five years’ time in 2029.

Steve Plumb, Director of Asset Strategy and Capital Delivery at Affinity Water, said:

“We’re committed to taking the necessary steps to ensure there is enough water for our customers and the environment. Doing nothing is not an option. By reducing demand, building new infrastructure and working collaboratively across the water industry, we’re planning for a sustainable water future.”

“Our approved plan reflects both public input and the latest regulatory guidance, ensuring that we meet future water needs while protecting the environment and delivering value to customers.

“The water industry faces significant challenges, including climate change, population growth and aging infrastructure, which strain water resources and affect supply reliability. As a clean water company, we must take proactive steps to reduce leakage, improve water efficiency and invest in sustainable infrastructure. Our responsibility extends to protecting ecosystems by reducing abstraction from vulnerable catchments and adapting to stricter environmental regulations. By adopting innovative technologies such as smart metering and nature-based solutions, we can lead the way in ensuring a resilient, affordable water supply for future generations.”

Click here to download Affinity Water’s WRMP 2024 in full