This data can be accessed from the Catchment Data Explorer: https://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning.
The Water Framework Directive / Water Environment Regulations requires the Environment Agency to maintain, review and keep up to date a register of the protected areas lying (whether wholly or partly) within the district.
The register must include the following protected areas
(a)a drinking water protected area;
(b)an area or body of water for the time being designated or otherwise identified as requiring special protection for the protection of surface water and groundwater or for the conservation of habitats or species directly, including, in particular—
(i)areas designated for the protection of economically significant aquatic species (including shellfish water protected areas);
(ii)bodies of water designated as recreational waters (bathing waters);
(iii)nutrient-sensitive areas;
(iv)areas designated for the protection of habitats or species where the maintenance or improvement of the status of water is an important factor in the protection of the habitats or species.
This data supports the Water Framework Directive river basin management plans that can be found here: https://environment.data.gov.uk/catchment-planning Attribution statement: © Environment Agency copyright and/or database right 2026. All rights reserved.
