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Written question asked by Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party) on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 June 2026. It was answered by Matthew Pennycook (Labour) on Monday, 20 July 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Housing: Sewers

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help support timely investment in wastewater infrastructure for new housing developments; and what discussions he has had with his counterparts in the devolved Administrations on this matter.

Answer

The government recognises the importance of wastewater provision on new developments. Water companies are under a statutory duty to provide new sewage connections to residential properties, as well as planning to meet the needs of growth as part of Drainage and Wastewater Management Plans.

The water resources planning guideline published by the Environment Agency and Ofwat, sets out how those companies should forecast demand for water based on existing customers and planned levels of household and non-household growth, with the number of planned developments being based on published local plans.

My officials work closely with other government departments, especially Defra, on matters relating to wastewater capacity and infrastructure. I would also note that responsibility for water and wastewater capacity is devolved, and that devolved institutions are best placed to determine the appropriate approach in their respective nations.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
12679
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Devolution Housing Finance Infrastructure Sewers
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk