The Scottish Government considers that our water resource is significant and in a world demanding more food and water there is good reason to nurture our water for our long-term sustainable use. It will therefore bring forward legislation to develop our water resource as a tool of economic growth and an environmental asset that will significantly contribute to the transition to a low carbon economy.
Key proposals in the Bill include:
- A requirement for Ministers to develop a strategy that seeks to maximise the value of Scotland's water sector and to create a strategic co-ordination group to advise them on this strategy. All public bodies will be required to contribute to the implementation of this strategy
- Providing Scottish Water with clarity as to its powers to fully develop its assets, ensuring it is structured to enable it to develop its full potential and requiring it to facilitate the development of Scotland's water resources so as to maximise their value to Scotland
- Ensuring the management of Scotland's water environment remains cutting edge by updating legislation relating to the management of drought orders, the control of certain substances in the water environment and the management of septic tanks
- Subject to the outcome of the World Water Forum bid, establish a time limited body to plan, manage and deliver the Forum