Research and analysis: Groundwater source protection zones (SPZs)

Updated: We have changed the link to groundwater source protection zones (SPZs). You now access the Environment Agency’s SPZs on MagicMap.

Access the Environment Agency’s groundwater SPZs on MagicMap.

To find the SPZs, from the table of contents on the left hand side, select in this order:

  • designations
  • land-based designations
  • non-statutory
  • source protection zones merged (England) – tick the box

Enter your post code and size the map. You can use the transparency slider bar under the ‘designations’ sub-heading to adjust visibility of place names within the zones.

The leaflet explains the Environment Agency’s national dataset of groundwater SPZ maps. We use them when we respond to development enquiries.

The science report sets out our methods for defining groundwater SPZs.




Research and analysis: Fuel mix disclosure data table

Updated: The UK fuel mix figures (Table 4) have been updated to 2 decimal places to address rounding.

The information constitutes the ‘fuel mix data disclosure data table’, as defined in the Electricity (Fuel Mix Disclosure) Regulations 2005.




Guidance: Poultry: on-farm welfare

Updated: Latest version of the code of practice for the welfare of laying hens and pullets added.

You and any staff working with animals must read, understand and have access to the relevant welfare code of recommendations for any birds you look after. Welfare codes aren’t law, but if you don’t follow them it can be used as evidence in court if you’re prosecuted for causing unnecessary suffering to livestock or poultry.

As a poultry keeper you must look after poultry in ways that meet their welfare needs, making sure they don’t experience any unnecessary distress, suffering or heat stress.

You need to follow the guide to looking after farm animals. It explains your general responsibilities to farm animals and helps you follow the Welfare of Farmed Animals Regulations 2007 and related laws.