Changes in drainage, bank profiles and the vegetation on banksides can all easily affect water quality for miles downstream. If care is not taken during development there is the potential for soils, sediment or polutants and chemicals used in construction to enter water courses.

The Environment Agency plays a key role in advising on planning applications near water. You can find out more about the Environment Agency's role in planning from the EA's website.

Use the navigation bar on the left to see more details on various wetlands.