< Previous | Contents | Next >

Controlled Activities Regulations

MINISTERIAL FOREWORD

In February 2002 we published "The Future for Scotland’s Waters – Proposals for Legislation". This set out the Executive’s proposals for the management and protection of our natural water environment for the long term benefit of future generations of Scots.

We welcomed the highly constructive comments we received in response to that document, and believe that with the Water Environment and Water Services (Scotland) Act 2003 we have established a firm foundation on which to build the necessary framework for the sustainable management of our rivers, lochs and coasts.

It is imperative that we achieve a balance between securing environmental improvements and enabling Scotland’s economic prosperity. An effective partnership with the Scottish Environment Protection Agency (SEPA) and the feedback received from the National Stakeholder Forum leading up to this consultation paper have been an essential part of the policy development process; and close links with both SEPA and stake-holders will continue to be an integral part of the implementation process. This will ensure that we achieve our environmental objectives responsibly and with due regard to all users of the water environment.

This document sets out our proposals on key aspects of implementation – regulations over activities affecting the water environment, including transitional arrangements and links with existing environmental legislation. I look forward to receiving your comments on these proposals.

ALLAN WILSON
Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development

< Previous | Contents | Next >