STATUTORY WATER-QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND RIVER WATER-QUALITY

This paper summarizes some of the key issues which have been considere d in developing proposals for a scheme of classifying river quality fo r the purpose of setting water quality objectives on a statutory basis . Particular attention is given to (a) the relationship between use-re lated and general water quality targets, (b) the role of biological as sessment, and (c) the requirements of EC directives. Following widespr ead consultation on the proposals, it was concluded that a clear disti nction should be made between sets of 'use classes' which would serve to set statutory water quality objectives (SWQOs) and a general qualit y assessment scheme which would be applied independently to assess tre nds and general progress over a period of time. Once the classificatio n scheme has been established by the Secretaries of State through regu lations, SWQOs will be introduced to river stretches in a number of 'p ilot' catchments across England and Wales, following local consultatio n. The setting of SWQOs will provide the focus for local decision-maki ng on what the appropriate level of water quality should be taking int o account the desired uses of rivers, what will be required to achieve them, and the associated costs.