Current status: Answered by Gillian Martin on 12 March 2026
To ask the Scottish Government what steps it is taking to ensure transparent public reporting on water scarcity indicators, drought risk levels and associated infrastructure vulnerabilities.
Scotland’s National Water Scarcity Plan sets out how water resources are managed prior to, and during, periods of prolonged dry weather. Water scarcity indicators and seasonal conditions are reported publicly through SEPA’s weekly and seasonal reports, providing early insight and transparency for stakeholders.
In terms of public water infrastructure vulnerabilities, Scottish Water has recently updated its supply-demand balance forecasts based on UK Climate Projections (UKCP18) as reflected in the recently published Final Business Plan for 2027 – 2033. This follows initial presentation of previous data through the Long-Term Strategy and Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Work is ongoing to update drought risk levels for water resource zones across the country.