Summary
River Basin Management Planning is vital to implementing the requirements of the Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. These regulations place an obligation on DAERA to strive to ensure that all inland and coastal waters achieve at least 'Good' status by 2033.
The Plans are subject to review and updates every six years. Publication of the third cycle RBMP has been delayed due to various factors. It was published on 13 June 2025, following Executive approval. This consultation includes an opportunity to provide feedback on the third cycle plan.
Documents
Consultation description
DAERA has launched a six-month consultation on the timetable and work programme for developing the fourth River Basin Management Plan for Northern Ireland. This consultation invites stakeholders to provide feedback on the third cycle plan plus contribute to the development of the fourth cycle plan. We request and encourage you to consider our timetable, consultation process, and mechanisms for collaborating with stakeholders to review and update the plans in 2027.
We would encourage all those with an interest in the water environment to respond to this consultation. There are various ways to respond detailed below and within the consultation document, including via Citizen Space.
Ways to respond
Consultation closed — responses are no longer being accepted.