This research developed a methodology for assessing how resilient key water using sectors are to water scarcity, and whether environmental risks linked to sector operations are reflected in resilience planning. The aim was to create a practical tool the OEP and other stakeholders could use to evaluate sector resilience and support scrutiny of Environmental Improvement Plans in England and Northern Ireland.
The work involved an initial Landscape Review of current water management practices and past drought impacts, followed by the development of a qualitative scorecard for four sectors: agriculture, industry, power and development. The scorecard combines a regional risk assessment with structured questions aligned to the National Infrastructure Commission’s resilience framework.
Designed for use in semi structured interviews with sector bodies, the scorecard enables the OEP and other stakeholders to gather consistent information on organisational drought resilience and contributions to wider regional or national preparedness. It provides a snapshot of current resilience rather than a maturity assessment.
Disclaimer:
WSP were commissioned by the Office for Environmental Protection to develop a methodology for assessing how resilient key water using sectors are to water scarcity. The views provided in this report are those of WSP and do not represent the opinion or position of the OEP. Some of the analysis in this report was used to inform the OEP’s report Progress in improving the natural environment in England 2024/2025.