Explanatory note

These Regulations amend the Nitrate Pollution Prevention Regulations 2015 (S.I. 2015/668) (“the 2015 Regulations”) which apply to England.

Regulation 3 ensures the 2015 Regulations refer to a new map of the revised Nitrate Vulnerable Zone (“NVZ”) designations for the period 2017 to 2020 to which the rules contained in the 2015 Regulations apply. Regulation 4 makes some changes to the procedure for publicising and notifying the revised NVZ designations for this period. Regulation 5 and the Schedule insert transitional arrangements for those newly in a designated NVZ so that the rules will not apply immediately.

Regulation 6 inserts requirements about record-keeping for those newly in NVZs. These requirements already applied to those previously in NVZs under the regulations in force before the 2015 Regulations. Regulation 7 makes consequential changes to regulation 34.

Regulation 8 amends arrangements for applying for a derogation under regulation 36, in particular to extend the period during which an application for 2017 can be made.

Regulation 9 makes further amendments, including to amend some definitions, remove spent transitional provisions, change the date by which the 2015 Regulations must be reviewed, and clarify regulation 24 and the offence provision.

An impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no impact on the private, voluntary or public sectors is foreseen.