Big changes planned for water bills in the UK
The government has announced new efficiency rules which will tackle water shortage bottlenecks and unblock stalled developments in areas of water scarcity.
A consultation launched today will propose small changes to Building Regulations that could see new homes fitted with water-saving features such as aerated taps and showerheads, and dual flush toilets.
The change to the design standard will make new build housing more water efficient, equivalent to 20 litres per person per day. Analysis has shown this could save £111 a year on energy and water bills in new homes.
The small measures will also help the environment by reducing the amount that needs to be taken from rivers, lakes, and delicate chalk streams for public supply.
Small changes, big results
The 12-week consultation looks to amend the current Building Regulations 2010 Part G2, which are insufficient to meet the parallel challenges of housing delivery and water conservation.
A reduction of 20 litres per person per day could see an additional 1,000 new homes unlocked for every 5,250 homes built. This is particularly helpful in areas like Cambridge and north Sussex where planning has previously been blocked because water demand outstripped supply.
The measures will support the government’s commitment to reduce water usage in England by 20% per person per day by 2038. It also puts us on track to use just 110 litres per head of the population by 2050.
Future innovations, such as using harvested rainwater to flush home toilets, are also being considered in a call to evidence that is running alongside the consultation.
England has seen seven consecutive months of below-average rainfall, with five areas in drought and more expected to follow soon despite the recent rain. Climate change and increased water demand means the nation needs to become more efficient with the water it has.
“We are getting Britain building faster, and a key element to growth is smarter water consumption,” said Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds.
“Removing the water shortage barriers that have stalled development for too long will mean unlocking thousands of new homes while saving families money. Not only will this make customer bills cheaper; it will protect the environment and unlock thousands of new homes.”
