‘New Water Architecture’: an integrated water management model

Abstract

An integrated framework for the management of water in England and Wales is proposed that optimises the organisation of service infrastructure, customers and stakeholders to derive optimal social, economic and environmental health. ‘New Water Architecture’ recognises the intrinsic links between water stakeholders, and between water and other essential resources, particularly food, energy and biodiversity. A systems-based approach strengthens integration of physical infrastructure, controlling institutions, and the overarching society consensus. Consideration is also given to future pressures with resilience to climate change strengthened by initiatives that slow water passage across the landscape. Implementation of the framework requires coordinated water policy across traditionally discrete resource sectors. This need is investigated alongside specific initiatives related to system management, abstraction licensing and pricing. Capital investment should be targeted towards ‘low-regret’ infrastructure argued to be high flow storage, aquifer storage and recovery, sustainable drainage systems and water transfers. These examples deliver multiple benefits and can be further optimised if existing networks, particularly inland waterways, are revitalised to enable regional integration of water sources.