30/04/09
Like most business sectors, the water industry is feeling the immediate impact of recession. But reduced demand is also having a more subtle effect – on water resource management plans for the long-term.
The plans are currently being finalised. All English companies have submitted Statements of Response to government setting out how they have taken into account representations to last year's public consultation and other changed circumstances.
As ministers consider the statements, they will notice that one of the main changes from draft plans is the lower demand forecasts made by all companies. Commercial and industrial demand is particularly affected and could mean companies being able to postpone some planned investments subject to careful demand forecasts in the years ahead.
Estimating when demand is likely to pick up will be tricky; and who knows whether demand from 'post recession' business will be higher or lower than in the final years of the Noughties boom? Getting this right will be a challenge for companies, their customers and all interested parties.
Background to resources plans and links to Statements of Responses by water companies in England
Contact: Bruce Horton
