The new maps show the vulnerability of groundwater at a location based on the hydrological, geological, hydrogeological and soil properties within a one kilometre square grid.

For the first time, the maps provide a separate assessment of the vulnerability of groundwater in overlying superficial rocks, and those that comprise the underlying bedrock.

The maps provide key evidence for the Environment Agency’s assessment of the exposure of groundwater to a pollution hazard from a given activity as part of its permitting activity work. They form part of a suite of tools developed by the Environment Agency for groundwater protection including source protection zones and position statements.

Two map products are available:

The basic groundwater vulnerability map displays information about the likelihood of a pollutant discharged at ground level (i.e. above the soil zone) reaching groundwater for superficial and bedrock aquifers. This is expressed as high, medium or low vulnerability.

The combined groundwater vulnerability map displays both the vulnerability and aquifer designation status (principal or secondary).

Click here to access the maps