What is nutrient neutrality and does it affect my development?

Nutrient neutrality is a planning requirement in certain designated river catchments. Natural England issued advice notes to local planning authorities in catchments where phosphate or nitrate levels in protected waterways were above acceptable limits. Affected areas in Somerset include the River Tone, Parrett, Brue and Axe catchments. If your development creates new buildings that generate additional wastewater, you must demonstrate that your scheme will not increase nutrient loading. One of the ways you can do this is by purchasing phosphate credits.