How to carry out a Water Framework Directive (WFD) assessment for a marine licence application

Transitional and coastal water bodies are protected under the Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) (England and Wales) Regulations 2017 with the aim of achieving 'Good' overall status.

A licensed project or activity seaward of Mean High Water Springs must demonstrate that it will not cause deterioration of a water body or prevent it meeting its objectives. Note that the chemical status of the water body is assessed up to 12 nautical miles.

You will also need to consider impacts to hydrologically connected water bodies, such as rivers, which are also protected under the WFD Regulations 2017.

All applications, apart from band 1 low risk activity applications, must be accompanied by a WFD assessment.

Email wfdwales@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk to request our Guidance Note (GN78) on how to carry out a WFD assessment.

View data on Welsh water bodies. 

View data on English water bodies.

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