River basin management planning in Scotland: statement of consultation steps for the third plans

SEPA ran a consultation about the steps we will take to engage stakeholders in the preparation of the third river basin management plan, RBMP, for Scotland. The consultation provided stakeholder with the opportunity to comment on; the timescales for formal consultation, how we will engage with partners, our intentions for cross border working and aligning RBMP with other plans and policies. A consultation for the Solway Tweed ran in conjunction.

We received 38 responses from a variety of well-informed stakeholders who agreed with the proposed consultation steps and timescales set out in the consultation. The respondents were very supportive of the proposed partnership approach and integration with plans and policies. They felt this was the most efficient way to use resource and delivery multiple benefits. Some respondents sought clarification about the format of engagement and more detail about how RBMP would be integrated into other plans and policies.

The full summary of responses can be found here.

Given the supportive nature of the responses SEPA will progress with the proposals outlined. SEPA will publish a communication and engagement strategy geared to the publication of the third plans to provide further detail to stakeholders.