National framework for water resources 2025. Water for growth, water for nature, water for a resilient future. Summary document

Environment Agency, 2026
National framework for water resources 2025. Water for growth, water for nature, water for a resilient future. Summary document Download document

Document Status

Current

Supplement

Sustainability, Environment, Development & Planning

Abstract

Summarises the new national framework for water resources in England, which discusses long term water needs, the actions needed to both ensure resilient supplies and improve the water environment. Covers: aims of the national framework; future pressures on water resources; understanding England's future water needs; addressing the deficit; water for the environment; environmentally sustainable abstraction; need for resource development; need for demand management; timely delivery of actions; water for energy; water for food; water for the wider economy; integrated water planning; joint ambition for the national framework, regional water resources groups and sectors; and regional water resources planning - expectations.

History

Last updated: 15 April 2026. Document type: policy paper. First published: 17 June 2025.

Subjects

  • Environmental planning/land
  • Planning and development
  • Environmental protection
  • Coastal planning
  • Flood management
  • Other planning disciplines
  • Waste planning
  • Water catchment and supply, sewerage
  • Pollution control

Publisher History

The Environment Agency is responsible for protecting and improving the environment in England and Wales. They publish a range of technical guidance, reports, policies and research material to promote a cleaner and healthier place to live in.

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