Sustainable water policy and strategic framework

Government policy in regard to securing a sustainable water sector in Northern Ireland is currently being implemented through 'Sustainable Water – a Long Term Water Strategy for Northern Ireland (2015-2040)' (DfI, March 2016). It sets out a range of initiatives to deliver the Executive's long term goal of a sustainable water sector and identifies how planning can impact on flood risk and water quality. The SPPS objectives for flood risk generally reflect the RDS and Sustainable Water. The SPPS also recognises and encourages the promotion of a more sustainable approach to the provision of water and sewerage services and flood risk management through the future promotion of SuDS. It recognises the need for the prevention of flood risk and for councils to balance and integrate the social, economic and environmental matters in the long term public interest to achieve sustainable development.