These Regulations concern the authorization of the abstraction of water from underground strata or waterways and the construction, alteration or operation of impounding works ("controlled activities").
The Regulations make provision for licence applications and their determination. They includes a provision relating to advertisement in cases where the controlled activity is likely to have a significant adverse impact on the water environment and for consideration of the impact of the proposed controlled activity on any site protected under the Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995. Provision is also made for the review of licences granted under the Regulations and for their modification, transfer, surrender and revocation.