Greywater recycling is the use of waste water from baths, showers, and hand basins for toilet flushing, irrigation, or washing machine supply. The definition of greywater excludes sewage and also waste water from kitchen sinks.
Around 33% of our average water usage comes from showers, basins and baths. This grey water can be recycled and reused for the flushing of toilets, which are calculated to use a further 30% of domestic water usage.
You will see immediate reduction in water bills if you have a water meter following the installation of a greywater recycling system in your home. The systems are suitable for inclusion in a new build home as well as being retrofitted into an existing one, although the costs will differ.
Listed Building Consent is required for greywater harvesting systems in listed buildings.
Support will be given to sensitively-designed greywater harvesting systems which align with the advice in the Heritage Guidance Position stated in the introduction and policy background of this SPD.
We support the careful installation of greywater harvesting systems by a suitably qualified professional.
In the light of the Climate Emergency, we will generally permit and encourage alterations on listed buildings, with special regard to the the following:
- Preserving the building, its setting or any features of special architectural or historic interest which it possesses
- Preserving or enhancing the character of a conservation area
- Respecting the significance of any non-designated heritage asset
The Environment Agency’s Guide to Grey Water Harvesting for Domestic Uses