Cost-Benefit Analysis of Water Supply Projects for the Eastern and Midlands Region evaluates alternative solutions to address long-term water shortages and reliability risks in a rapidly growing region. The analysis compares major options, notably Shannon water abstraction and desalination, using economic appraisal techniques over the project lifecycle.
The study identifies significant economic costs from inaction, including supply outages, reduced industrial output, and rising demand pressures. It quantifies benefits such as improved water security, avoided economic losses, and support for population and regional growth.
Results show both options deliver positive net benefits, but the Shannon abstraction option performs better, with a higher benefit-cost ratio and overall economic return.
Overall, the report demonstrates that investing in resilient, large-scale water infrastructure is economically justified and critical for long-term development.
