Water Planning in Britain

Book excerpt: Originally published in 1980, this book provides a penetrating and scholarly analysis of the planning of water resources, based on 10 years’ of research into one of Britain’s most vital industries. At the time of original publication Britain had a plentiful natural supply of water, but accessible clean water was scarce; droughts were not uncommon, floods often caused considerable damage; water bills were rising dramatically and consumption increasing inexorably. All of which applies as much to water resources in the UK today. Water planners must strike a delicate balance between many conflicting social, environmental, political and financial demands. Britain’s water authorities are large and autonomous organisations subject to constant change and controversy. Water policies affect not only water but also land-use planning, recreation planning, environmental quality, food production and the maintenance of public health. The book explains common threads and issues in the planning of 4 main water functions: water supply, effluent disposal and pollution control, water recreation and amenity and land drainage and flood alleviation. 11 original British case studies have been selected to illustrate the issues involved. The final chapter presents a critical and controversial evaluation of water policy and planning institutions in Britain, highlighted by some international comparisons.