Chalk Streams (Protection) Bill
Official Summary
A Bill to provide for a category of protection for chalk streams for the purpose of providing additional protections from pollution, abstraction and other forms of environmental damage; and for connected purposes.
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Overview
This bill aims to create a new legal category of protection for chalk streams in England and Wales, safeguarding them from pollution, water abstraction, and other environmental damage. The bill mandates the Secretary of State to create regulations to achieve this, including the potential for new criminal offences for non-compliance.
Description
The Chalk Streams (Protection) Bill establishes a new legal framework to protect chalk streams. The Secretary of State will be responsible for creating regulations defining this protection.
These regulations will:
- Set priorities for public authorities to protect and improve chalk stream habitats.
- Give new powers and responsibilities to public authorities.
- Introduce criminal offences and fines for violating regulations.
The creation of these regulations requires consultation with the Environment Agency, Natural England, water companies, and the Chalk Stream Restoration Group. A draft of the regulations must be approved by both Houses of Parliament before becoming law. The Secretary of State must also submit annual reports to Parliament on the bill's implementation and effectiveness.
Government Spending
The bill does not specify any direct government spending figures. The cost of implementing the regulations, including enforcement and potential compensation for affected parties, is yet to be determined.
Groups Affected
- Public Authorities: Will face new responsibilities and potentially increased costs in managing and protecting chalk streams.
- Water Companies: May face restrictions on water abstraction and increased costs associated with compliance.
- Individuals and Businesses: Potentially subject to new criminal offences and fines for actions that damage chalk streams. This could include farmers, landowners, and industrial polluters.
- Environmental Groups: Likely to see positive impacts as the bill enhances protections for chalk stream ecosystems.
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