The Democratic Services Officer introduced the report and referenced point 2.5 of the report, which outlined the meetings held so far by the Water Management Cycle Working Group (the Group). The Group’s final report would be presented to the Committee before the end of the Municipal Year.

In response to questions, the Democratic Services Officer confirmed that the Environment Agency had not responded to a further invitation to partake in the review, and that the minutes of the group’s meeting held on the 7 February 2023 would be available later in the week.

The group members present highlighted the engagement had with other stakeholders, including Southeast and Southern Water, and felt that a further attempt should be made to contact the Environment Agency. National Highways would also be invited to contribute, possibly through written evidence. The importance of continuing to apply pressure to the relevant organisations, particularly the water companies, to improve the water cycle’s management, was highlighted.

In relation to joint working, the Chairman outlined their attendance at a Planning and Infrastructure Policy Advisory Committee, to comment on the Water Supply Consultations on the group’s behalf; the comments made were taken on board by the Committee.

The Democratic Services Officer was thanked for their work in supporting the group.

RESOLVED: That the report be noted.