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Data Requirements Library

This Data Requirements Library documents the terminology and categories used to classify and describe Environment Agency (EA) assets. It also documents the specific data attributes that are used to describe the properties of each Asset Type and its Element Types.

Asset Categories

The EA has identified different types of Asset. These Asset Types are grouped into Asset Category groupings, as listed below.

The Asset Complex Category is a special case because its Assets are used to define geospatial areas, not physical assets. Similarly, the Information Deliverables Category defines document types and attributes to be used in filenames.

You can explore each Asset Type further by clicking on its name. This will take you to a more detailed description which may be supported by photos and diagrams that highlight key elements. There is also a table which lists the Element Types and specific data attributes that are used to describe that Asset Type.

Data about each Asset Type, Element Type and their attributes can also be accessed in JSON or CSV. These formats can be directly queried by remote applications to support supplier-side automation.

Please read the Data Requirements Library in conjunction with the Environment Agency Exchange Information Requirements.

The View History link at the top of the page gives you access to older versions of the DRL content. Further details about these versions can be found on Data Services Platform Support.

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Quick Links

The following links provide quick access to the complete lists of Asset Categories, Asset Types, Elements, Attributes and Picklists defined in the currently-selected version of the DRL data.

Asset Categories
Asset Types are grouped into Asset Categories. These links provide access to the complete list of Asset Categories defined in the currently-selected version of the data.
Asset Types
These links provide access to the complete list of Asset Types defined in the currently-selected version of the data.
Elements
Each Asset Type is composed of a set of Element Types. These links provide access to the completed set of Element Types defined across all Asset Types in the currently-selected version of the data.
Attributes
Each Asset and Element Type is described by a set of attributes. These links provide access to the complete list of Attributes defined across all Asset and Element Types in the currently-selected version of the data. Warning: The attributes file is large, and may take some time to download.
Picklists
These links provide access to the complete set of picklists defined in the currently-selected version of the data.

Aids to Navigation

Assets that are used to aid navigation in the marine and fluvial environment.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
BeaconA marker structure that is fixed either to land or piled into the seabed/riverbed and is used to show ships and boats where they can go and to warn them of danger. A beacon may be lighted or unlighted.ABPr_40_10_90_07Point21-11-2023
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Boat LandingA place for boats to wait or be temporarily parked before entering a lock. A landing may also be known as a layby.ALEn_32_50_46Point21-11-2023
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BoatrollerA bankside structure which incorporates rollers to allow small unpowered craft, such as canoes, to bypass a lock.ARSL_32_50_72Point21-11-2023
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BuoyA marker object that floats on the surface of the water and is used to show ships and boats where they can go and to warn them of danger. A buoy is anchored to the bed of the sea or river and may be lighted or unlighted.AUPr_40_10_90_10Point21-11-2023
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Canoe PassA channel of water designed to allow the bypass of locks by canoes and kayaks.ACSL_32_50_11Point21-11-2023
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Canoe Portage PointA prepared area designed to allow the ingress and egress of small boats, kayaks and canoes.APSL_32_50_12Point21-11-2023
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DockAn enclosed area of water used for loading, unloading, building or repairing ships. A dock may have control gates at one end to facilitate the drainage of water to create a dry dock.AOEn_30_85Point21-11-2023
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DolphinA man-made marine structure that extends above the water level and is not connected to shore. It is usually piled into the river or sea bed. Dolphins may be used as a temporary tethering point, a structure for housing navigation aids or for protecting other structures from ship impacts.ADEn_32_85_24Point21-11-2023
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LockA chamber or stretch of channel enclosed by lock gates at each end, which allow the water level inside the lock to be adjusted. This allows boats, ships and other watercraft to transfer between two bodies of water at different levels.AKSL_80_70_11Polygon26-02-2024
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Lock IslandThe area of land between a lock and its associated water level control structure such as a weir or control gate. Lock Islands are often formed using sheet piling or concrete retaining walls.AISL_80_70_48Polygon21-11-2023
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MooringA place where a boat or vessel can be secured to stop it floating away.
A Mooring asset should be used where the main purpose of the asset is for mooring boats or vessels. Where a boat or vessel needs to moor for a short time to use an asset, such as at a lock, a Mooring Point should be added as an element of that asset.
AMSL_32_50_53Point21-11-2023
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Navigation BoomA floating barrier strung across a navigable stretch of water to control or block navigation.ANPr_40_10_90_55Line21-11-2023
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Navigation SignageSignage in the marine and fluvial environment which provides information or warnings to aid navigation.AGPr_40_10_90Point21-11-2023
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SignalAn asset which sends signals (light, sound or radio) to ships at sea, such as fog signals or traffic control signals.ASPr_40_10_90_50Point21-11-2023
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Warning FlagA flag used to warn boats or vessels about danger.AWSs_40_10_30_93Point21-11-2023
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Amenities

Assets that contribute to the accessibility or usability of a location.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Camping AreaAn area where camping is permitted.YBSL_45_10_88Polygon21-11-2023
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Car Park or HardstandingAn area of prepared ground with either hardcore or tarmac used for parking vehicles.YCEn_80_45_85Polygon21-11-2023
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Information BoardA structure which is designed to convey information to people (typically visitors).YIPr_40_30_25Point21-11-2023
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PathwayA route, way or track laid out for walking or travelling on (but not with motor vehicles - see Vehicle Access Road).YPEn_80_40Line21-11-2023
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Vehicle Access RoadA purpose built track or road that allows vehicular access to an asset or group of assets.YAEn_80_35_01Line21-11-2023
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Asset Complex

A grouping together of individual assets that can be considered as parts of a single site or complex with a high level purpose.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Biodiversity and Environmental ConservationA group of associated assets which enhance or conserve biodiversity, habitats or the local environment in a certain area.IVSs_45_35_08Polygon21-11-2023
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Complex Beach StructureA collection of beach assets which work together to protect the coast from erosion.IBCo_32_55_20Polygon21-11-2023
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Complex DefenceA collection of assets which work together to provide flood defence or coastal protection functions.IDCo_32_55_30Polygon21-11-2023
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Complex StructureA collection of assets which work together to enable, restrict or affect the movement of water, people, fish, animals or materials.ISEn_32_85_30Polygon21-11-2023
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Control StructureA group of assets which make up a control structure, to control water levels or flow in a watercourse.ICCo_32_85Polygon21-11-2023
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Erosion ProtectionA group of assets which work together to reduce erosion at a particular feature or area.IECo_32_55_27Polygon21-11-2023
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Fish FarmA place for artificial breeding, hatching, and rearing through the early life stages of animals for commercial and generic restocking purposes.IFCo_32_10_28Polygon21-11-2023
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Fish HatcheryA place for artificial breeding, hatching, and rearing through the early life stages of animals for conservation purposes.IICo_32_10_30Polygon21-11-2023
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Flood Alleviation SchemeA group of assets which work together to alleviate flooding to a defined area from a defined source.IQCo_32Polygon21-11-2023
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HarbourA group of assets which make up a harbour. A harbour is an area of water next to the coast, often sheltered from the sea by a wall, where ships and boats can shelter.IHCo_80_70_36Polygon21-11-2023
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Lock ComplexA group of associated assets which form a complex of locks, for example a series of locks.ILCo_32_85_50Polygon21-11-2023
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Monitoring StationA group of assets which make up a monitoring station. A monitoring station measures different parameters in the field depending on the type of monitoring station it is, such as:
- Rain Gauge;
- Borehole (measuring quality and / or quantity);
- Climate station measuring atmospheric conditions including temperature, wind speed and direction, net radiation, atmospheric pressure, humidity, air quality;
- Surface water quality.
IMCo_25_30Polygon21-11-2023
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Navigation ComplexA group of assets which work together in a defined location to aid or enable the navigation of waterways or coastlines.INCo_32_50Polygon21-11-2023
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Pumping StationA group of assets which make up a pumping station. A pumping station could be:
1. A groundwater pumping station abstracts groundwater and delivers it to a water body. A groundwater scheme can be made up of multiple pumping stations.
2. A Surface Water Pumping Station abstracts water from one water body and delivers it to a different water body. A surface water transfer scheme can be made up of multiple pumping stations.
IPCo_32_85_98Polygon21-11-2023
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Recreational ComplexA group of assets providing a recreational facility in a certain location.IACo_40Polygon21-11-2023
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ReservoirA group of assets which make up a reservoir. A reservoir is a large area for storing water which is created or enlarged by artificial means, and the associated impounding and control structures and assets.IRCo_32_85_70Polygon21-11-2023
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Tidal BarrierA group of assets which work together in a complex to provide a barrier to tidal flooding in an estuary or bay. A tidal barrier would usually include assets such as control gates, central piers, a control building and any mechanical and electrical assets used to operate the control gates.ITCo_32_85_88Polygon21-11-2023
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Water Level and Flow Monitoring ComplexA group of assets making up a water level and flow monitoring complex, which is in place to monitor water levels and flow in a watercourse, tide levels, or surface water levels.IUCo_32_85_97Polygon21-11-2023
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Water Transfer SchemeA group of associated assets which transfer water from one catchment or waterbody to another.IWCo_55_70_20Polygon21-11-2023
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Beach Structure

Assets used to protect the coast from erosion.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
BreakwaterA wall or piled barrier built out into the sea or waterway to protect a shore, harbour or asset from the force of waves, or water flow or motion.BBEn_32_85_10Line26-02-2024
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GroyneA linear structure extending from the shore into the sea that traps sediment moving along the shore, thus preventing longshore drift.BGEn_32_85_35Line16-01-2024
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Buildings and Compounds

Assets that are used to provide shelter for equipment, storage or personnel.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Amenity BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for the provision of amenities. Amenities are something which makes life more pleasant or comfortable for people. Examples include Toilet Blocks, Food Kiosks, Cafes, Indoor Picnic Areas.VYEn_40_05_68Point26-02-2024
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BoathouseA building designed and/or used primarily for the storage and/or maintenance of boats.VBEn_30_85_07Point26-02-2024
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Control BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily to house the controls for operational assets.VCEn_75_70_60Point26-02-2024
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GarageA building designed and/or used primarily for the storage and/or maintenance of vehicles.VASL_90_50_33Point21-11-2023
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Gauging Station BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for the housing of apparatus, equipment and fixtures for measuring river levels and flow.VGEn_90_90_35Point26-02-2024
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Lab BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for laboratory activities.VLEn_25_30_40Point26-02-2024
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Maintenance BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for the maintenance of equipment and assets or elements.VMEn_30_60_50Point26-02-2024
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Monitoring BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for the housing of apparatus, equipment and fixtures for the purpose of monitoring the environment. Does not include Gauging Stations that monitor river level and flow.VNEn_90_90_27Point26-02-2024
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Office BuildingA building primarily containing offices where work is done. This does not include Office Buildings that are managed by Facilities Management.VFCo_20_15_58Point26-02-2024
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Precipitation CompoundA demarked space which is designed and maintained specifically to facilitate the measurement of precipitation.VQEn_32_40_65Point21-11-2023
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Pump HouseA building designed and used to house Pump Assembly assets. The building may also house the controls and facilities which support their operation.
If a building only houses the controls and facilities which support the operation of the pump assembly assets, and not the pump assembly assets themselves, this will be recorded as a Control Building asset.
VPEn_90_90_68Point16-01-2024
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Residential BuildingA building designed and/or used primarily for people to dwell in.VREn_45_10Point26-02-2024
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ShelterA place giving temporary protection from the elements, e.g. Fish Huts, Animal Shelters, Bird Hides.VSSs_20_10_70Point26-02-2024
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Storage LocationThe location where equipment, such as temporary barriers or mobile instrumentation, is stored.VECo_90_50_77Point21-11-2023
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Visitor CentreA building designed and/or used primarily as a centre for providing information and facilities to members of the public.VVEn_40_75_94Point26-02-2024
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WatermillA building designed and/or used primarily for the housing of machinery for converting potential energy of water into useful power. Does not include Gauging Stations that monitor river level and flow.VTEn_30_80_96Point21-11-2023
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Channel

Assets that convey water.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Complex CulvertA covered channel or pipe which conveys a watercourse through an obstacle. A complex culvert has a cross section which is made of more than one material, e.g. masonry walls with a concrete soffit.
There is sometimes confusion between culverts and bridges. The key test is whether a culvert inspection is required; if not the structure should be classified as a bridge.
CCEn_32_95_16Line21-11-2023
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Natural SpringA point at which groundwater flows from an aquifer at the Earth's surface.CNCo_32_65_82Point21-11-2023
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Open ChannelA conduit in which water flows with a free surface, i.e. not culverted.CPEn_32_95_59Line16-01-2024
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Simple CulvertA covered channel or pipe which conveys a watercourse through an obstacle. A simple culvert has a cross section which is made of the same material throughout (for example: concrete pipe, concrete box section, brick arched).
There is sometimes confusion between culverts and bridges. The key test is whether a culvert inspection is required; if not the structure should be classified as a bridge.
CSEn_32_95_80Line26-02-2024
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Channel Crossings

Assets that allow access across a channel.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
BridgeA structure that spans a watercourse and allows the passage of road, rail, pedestrian and farm access. It also includes aqueducts.
If the abutments of the bridge form part of the flood defence they need to be recorded as a separate asset, not an abutment element of the bridge.
RBEn_80_94Line21-11-2023
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FordA shallow part of a watercourse that may be crossed on foot or by a vehicle in low flows. These can occur naturally or can be man-made.RFSL_32_50_30Point21-11-2023
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Utility Services CrossingA structure that spans a watercourse and allows a utility service to cross the watercourse. This can be either above (e.g. a gantry, pipe or service conduit suspended over the channel) or below the channel (e.g. a pipe or service conduit buried under the channel bed).RUSs_20_10_30_65Line21-11-2023
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Defence

Asset that provide flood defence or coastal protection functions. These include both man-made and natural defences. Natural defences may include man-made elements to make them more effective or protect them from erosion.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Barrier BeachA sand or shingle bar above high tide, parallel to the coastline and usually separated from it by a lagoon. Barrier beaches that protect the land behind them from flooding and/or erosion.DAEn_32_85_06Line21-11-2023
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BeachA pebbly or sandy shore found at the coast. Beaches that protect the land behind them from flooding and/or erosion.DBEn_32_65_06Line21-11-2023
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Bridge AbutmentA supporting structure at the end of a bridge span that also acts as a flood defence. It ties into other flood defences and completes the line of defence against high river levels.
If the bridge to which an abutment belongs is also of interest it will also have to be defined as a Bridge asset (without duplicating the abutment element).
DGSs_20_50_10Line26-02-2024
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CliffA steep rock face, especially one that runs along the coast. Cliffs that protect the land behind them from flooding and/or erosion.DCCo_32_65_15Line21-11-2023
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Demountable DefenceSections of flood defence that are removable (e.g. for visual amenity or access reasons). The removable sections must be designed to fit, and be used in, one particular location/site. There will usually be fixings on site, such as holes to bolt posts into or slots in flood walls for flood boards to fit into. This includes flood boards in doorways/driveways that formally form part of the line of defence.
Mobile temporary barriers which can be deployed in multiple locations and are not site-specific are NOT included in this asset type.
DMSs_15_95_25_30Line16-01-2024
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DunesWind-blown sand mounds found along the coast which can provide a flood defence and/or erosion protection function.DDEn_32_65_75Line21-11-2023
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EmbankmentAlso known as a levee or dyke. An artificially raised, earthen ridge used in the fluvial, tidal and coastal environments for flood defence, erosion protection, or channel containment. Includes embankments with other primary purposes, such as transport embankments, if they also provide a flood defence and erosion protection function. Also covers embankment dams.
Natural ridges of high ground should be classified as natural high ground.
Embankments should be defined as separate assets where the elements in an embankment profile change significantly in type, form, material or geometry.
DEEn_32_85_45Line16-01-2024
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Engineered High GroundRetained, engineered or otherwise modified ground along watercourses or the coastline, that is not covered by one of the other defence asset types. Only covers cases where the top of the retaining structure is no higher than the ground behind it, therefore it is not considered a raised flood defence such as a flood wall or embankment. Although it may still provide some flood risk management benefit through retaining the ground or preventing below-ground flooding through underground services and basements.
Examples of engineered high ground include river frontage walls or sea frontage walls which are no taller than the ground behind them.
If the retaining structure is taller than the ground behind it, it is considered a raised flood defence and should be classified as a flood wall or embankment. If the retained ground acts as a quay or promenade, it should be classified as such.
DREn_32_40_37Line21-11-2023
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Flood GateA gate providing access for pedestrians or vehicles through a flood defence, while maintaining flood protection when closed.DFSs_25_36_30_30Line16-01-2024
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Natural High GroundAny extent along a watercourse or coastline which completes the line of continuous defence, but has not been modified in any way, so does not qualify as any of the other defence asset types.DNEn_32_40_37Line21-11-2023
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PromenadeA paved public walking area along the coast which also provides a flood defence and/or erosion protection function.DPEn_80_40_66Line21-11-2023
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QuayA structure adjacent to or protruding into watercourse or the sea to load or unload boats. Can also provide a line of defence against flooding.
Do not use Quay if the asset's primary function is a breakwater; use Breakwater.
DQEn_32_50_69Line21-11-2023
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SpillwayA structure designed to allow the safe, controlled overflow or release of water from a reservoir or flood storage area, or over flood defences. It allows excess water to overflow without damaging the water retaining structure (dam or flood defences). These may be linear structures, or shafts (such as bell-mouth spillways).
Spillways are defences in their own right. Linear spillways therefore need to snap to defences both upstream and downstream, and cannot be an additional defence parallel with a different defence type. Shaft spillways should be digitised as a line around the perimeter of the structure.
DSEn_32_85_82Line26-02-2024
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WallA wall which is raised above the surrounding land and acts as a barrier against flooding from rivers or the sea.
Does not include walls which only retain earth and are not higher than the ground behind them. These are classified as engineered high ground.
Includes other raised walls that may not have been constructed as flood walls, if they act as a flood defence and form part of a line of flood defences. For example, a garden wall or wall of a building which has been designated as a flood defence. Also includes walls that have been constructed as dams.
DWEn_32_85_96Line16-01-2024
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Information Deliverables

Specific Information Deliverables scheduled in each project Information Delivery Plan (IDP) for each required delivery stage.
The *File Naming Attributes and *Information Purposes assets are not specific information deliverables but list the allowable values for different parts of the file names, and the purposes for which the the information may be used.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
*File Naming AttributesLists of the allowable values for different parts of the file names, such as Author, Type and Delivery Stage, according to the required file-naming convention.N/AN/AN/A21-11-2023
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*Information PurposesThe purposes that the information will or may be used to support.N/AN/AN/A21-11-2023
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Asset ManagementInformation required relating to asset management.J0000PM_80N/A21-11-2023
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Commercial Financial ProductsAny commercial financial products generated in the delivery of the project.F0000PM_50N/A21-11-2023
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Commissioning and Performance Evaluation (GSL)Information required relating to commissioning and performance evaluation including Government Soft Landings (GSL).M0000PM_35N/A21-11-2023
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Communications and EngagementInformation relating to communications, engagement and consultation.N0000PM_80_20N/A21-11-2023
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DesignAll supporting and analytical information relating to the design for the project outcome including calculations and justifications.B0000PM_40_30N/A21-11-2023
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Economic ViabilityInformation required relating to economic viability.H0000PM_50_30N/A21-11-2023
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EnvironmentalAll supporting and analytical information relating to the environmental considerations of the design for the project outcome including assessments and agreements.C0000PM_30_30N/A21-11-2023
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Health and SafetyAll Health and Safety documentation relating to the project.K0000PM_35_50N/A21-11-2023
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ModellingInformation required relating to hydraulic and fluvial modelling.L0000PM_40_35N/A21-11-2023
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Permissions, ownership and responsibilityRecords of any approvals granted.I0000PM_40_50N/A21-11-2023
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PlanningInformation required relating to planning.R0000PM_80_10N/A21-11-2023
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Procurement ProductsInformation required relating to supplier procurement, tender and appointment.G0000PM_50_50N/A21-11-2023
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Project ManagementAny project management related information generated in the delivery of the project.E0000PM_10_10N/A21-11-2023
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Site and Asset ConditionsPhysical information about the project area (discovery).A0000PM_60_10N/A21-11-2023
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Site-based worksAll information relating to the works carried out on site, including construction.D0000PM_60_10N/A21-11-2023
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Instruments

Assets used to measure water level and flow.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
CCTV Camera SystemA CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) camera or group of connected CCTV cameras at a site and the associated onsite equipment.
Does not include any offsite remote monitoring equipment or software. For the purpose of monitoring an EA asset. Not security cameras on buildings.
NCSs_75_40_53_86Point21-11-2023
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Flood Warning SystemA device or mechanism situated in a flood risk area that warns people in the area of imminent flooding. May consist of lights, alarms or signage, or a combination.NFSs_75_60_55_30Point21-11-2023
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Gauge BoardA board with numeral markings, used to measure and indicate the depth or level of water in a water body such as a river, reservoir, dock, harbour or ford.NGPr_80_51_70_96Point21-11-2023
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InstrumentationA device or connected system of devices to measure physical quantities in a particular location or relating to a particular asset. Examples of physical quantities include level, flow, temperature, position, pressure.
Instrumentation may stand alone (to measure the environment) or may be installed alongside another asset (to measure physical quantities relating to that asset).
Where instrumentation stands alone it should be grouped by the physical quantity being measured, e.g. one asset consisting of level instrumentation and one asset consisting of flow instrumentation.
Where instrumentation is measuring physical quantities relating to another asset, it should be grouped by the asset it is associated with and not by what is being measured, e.g. one asset for all the instrumentation associated to pump 1 and another asset for all the instrumentation associated to pump 2.
Does not include mobile or portable instruments or measuring equipment.
NIPr_80_51Point21-11-2023
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PiezometerAn instrument for measuring pressure or depth in groundwater.NPPr_80_51_51_62Point16-01-2024
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Sample or Survey PointA known point in the physical world from where correct orientation or a sample can be taken. Usually marked in some way with a Datum Plate, Marker or Peg.NSZz_35_80Point21-11-2023
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TelecommunicationsA fixed wire system that, via send and receive equipment, allows voice or data transmission from a fixed location to the receiving instrumentation. The system consists of two way communication cables and a master socket.NLSs_75_10_21_88Point21-11-2023
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Telemetry SystemA telemetry system communicates data from an asset to a receiving system.NTSs_75_70_54_03Point21-11-2023
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Land

Areas of land that are involved in water management.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
MudflatsCoastal wetlands that form in intertidal areas where sediments have been deposited by tides or rivers. Mudflats are usually covered at high tide, and lower in the intertidal zone than salt marshes. They are a natural part of the coastal environment that provide habitat and have an effect on water management.LMEn_32_65_55Polygon21-11-2023
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Salt MarshMudflats that have built up to a higher elevation so that vegetation is able to colonise. Salt marshes lie just above the usual high tide line, though may be covered by exceptionally high tides. They are a natural part of the coastal environment that provide habitat and have an effect on water management.LSCo_32_65_75Polygon21-11-2023
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Water Storage AreaAn area of land that is deliberately engineered to hold water where it wouldn't naturally accumulate. For example, if a reservoir is created by constructing a dam, the area of land that could fill with water as a result would be the Water Storage Area. Or if an area of land is engineered to form a basin and water is diverted into it to be held for any length of time, this area of land is a Water Storage Area. Other examples include areas of land adjacent to watercourses where control gates are used to deliberately fill when rivers are high or sediment ponds used to capture sediment and protect the water quality of adjacent watercourses.
Does not include natural lakes or ponds unless they are modified to store more water than they would naturally.
LWSs_55_15_30_02Polygon21-11-2023
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MEICA

Mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control and automation assets.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Automation ControlsEquipment used to control multiple assets within a system such as a pumping station and a tidal control gate. This will usually require a centralised control network.
Where the control equipment is used to only control one asset then this will normally sit within an MCCC and can be recorded as such, e.g. a pump that has a PLC to operate various ancillaries that are recorded as the pump assembly. SCADA systems must be recorded as Automation Control Assets.
MTSs_75_70Point26-02-2024
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Engine AssemblyThe assembled elements of a machine which burns or consumes fuel to perform mechanical work.MESs_85_50_65_40Point21-11-2023
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GeneratorA device that converts movement (mechanical energy) into electrical power for use in an external circuit.
Does not include wind or hydro turbines, which are classified separately.
MJPr_60_70_65_34Point21-11-2023
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High Voltage Electrical EquipmentElectrical equipment with a high voltage, usually 1000V or more.MHSs_70_30_35Point21-11-2023
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Hydraulic System AssemblyThe assembled elements of a system that uses pressurised hydraulic fluid to power hydraulic machinery.MYSs_85_50_65_38Point21-11-2023
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Motor Control Centre ControlsControl panels that operate motorised equipment such as pumps or gates.MCPr_75_50_18_53Point21-11-2023
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Power TransmissionThe asset(s) used for the movement of energy from its source to the location where it is used to perform its useful work.MOSs_85_50_65Point21-11-2023
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Pressure System AssemblyThe assembled elements of a pressure system. This includes all plant/systems that contain a 'relevant fluid', defined as steam or gas under pressure and liquids under pressure which become gases upon release to the atmosphere, at a pressure greater than 0.5 bar (about 7psi) above atmospheric (except for steam).MDSs_55_20_60_15Point21-11-2023
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Pump AssemblyThe assembled elements of a device that raises, transports or compresses fluids by mechanical action. Only includes pumps fixed in a particular location. Mobile pumps which are transported to be used at various locations are not included in this definition.MPPr_65_53Point16-01-2024
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Sand Bagging EquipmentEquipment used to fill sand bags for use in Incident Response. Assets that are fixed in a permanent location only (this does not include mobile equipment or hand held / manual equipment).MKPr_40_70_66_75Point21-11-2023
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Solar FarmA group of photovoltaic solar panels that supply electricity to the National Grid; it does not directly supply electricity to an asset.MSSs_70_10_70_35Polygon21-11-2023
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Wind Power GeneratorA stand alone power generator system for collecting the wind's kinetic energy that is not an element of another asset that is there to supply the asset with power.MVSs_70_10_70_98Point21-11-2023
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Public Safety

Environment Agency managed assets that are used in the protection of public safety.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
PSRA Tree SiteA group of PSRA (Public Safety Risk Assessment) measures at a tree or group of trees that are used to guard public safety and control any risks to public safety caused by those trees.KTCo_32_65_96Polygon21-11-2023
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Public Safety Control SystemA group of measures at an asset or group of assets that are used to guard public safety and control any risks to public safety caused by that asset.KPCo_75Polygon26-02-2024
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Structure

Assets used to enable, restrict or affect the movement of water, people, fish, animals or materials.

Asset TypeDescriptionAsset CodeUniclass 2015Geometry TypeUpdates
Animal TrapA device designed to trap animals without injuring them, for example so they can be tagged or checked.TKPr_40_30_22_38Point21-11-2023
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BoreholeA shaft bored into the ground that is used to extract groundwater via a pump, or to monitor and/or measure water quality and/or quantity.SASs_15_95_15_10Point16-01-2024
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CablewayA wire rope system, normally mounted between two stanchions used for supporting and moving measuring/gauging equipment from point A to B via a cable suspended between the two stanchions. Cableways are not used for the carriage of people. Cableways will be subject to a statutory examination.TASL_80_20_13Line21-11-2023
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Central PierA significant central supporting structure built in a channel which both:
1. provides an intermediate support to a structure spanning the channel
AND
2. provides a platform or building for accommodating equipment, machinery and/or operating personnel.
If the second criteria is not met, then the supporting structure should be classified as a Central Support Structure element of the spanning structure, e.g. control gate.
TFSs_20_50_20Point21-11-2023
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Control GateAn adjustable gated structure used to control water levels and flow in watercourses, for water flow management, flood control and navigation. Includes all types of gate, e.g. sluice gates, mitre gates, sector gates, radial gates, vertical lift gates and penstocks. Also includes gates in tidal barriers.
Does not include control structures that are adjusted by removable stoplogs. These are covered by In-Channel Stoplogs.
Often multiple gates are used in parallel, but each gate should be considered a separate control gate asset and grouped together in a Control Structure complex.
Only covers gates in channels to control channel flow. Gates outside the channel which form part of a line of flood defences are Flood Gates.
SGEn_32_85_15Point26-02-2024
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Debris BoomA floating barrier across a watercourse designed to catch debris which could interfere with the operation of an asset.SBPr_40_70_27_22Line21-11-2023
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Debris ScreenA screen that reduces the amount of trash and debris entering culverts, outfalls or channels (where it could cause a blockage).SREn_32_85_23Point16-01-2024
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Draw Off TowerA vertical tubular structure with one or more openings used for removing water from reservoirs and diverting it elsewhere.SDEn_32_85_25Point21-11-2023
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Fish PassA structure that enables fish (lamprey species, salmonids, eels, coarse fish species, shad species) to bypass an obstacle in a channel such as a weir or control gate.SFSs_45_75_30Point26-02-2024
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Fish RefugeA floating wire mesh refuge providing cover for smaller fish.TEPr_45_28_30_30Point21-11-2023
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Fish or Eel BarrierA barrier that prevents the movement of aquatic life into areas that may jeopardise their survival. It could be a physical barrier, ultrasound or electrical system.TBSs_45_75_25_05Point21-11-2023
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Fishing CageA system that confines fish or shellfish in a mesh enclosure. Must be fixed in location.TCEn_32_10_29Point21-11-2023
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Fishing PlatformA horizontal construction on the bank of a reservoir, river or lake to allow safe and inclusive access primarily for fishing, usually protruding slightly over the water.TPEn_32_50_96Point21-11-2023
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In Channel StoplogsAn adjustable structure used to control water levels and flow in watercourses, for water flow management, flood control, and navigation.
This asset is only to be used when the adjustable structure is a standalone asset. If there are stoplogs as part of an asset, in order that maintenance can be completed, they are a Stoplogs and Lasherboard element of the asset they are part of.
Does not include gated structures, only structures which are adjusted by the addition or removal of stoplogs.
Multiple sets of stoplogs may be used in parallel, but each set of stoplogs should be considered a separate asset and grouped together in a Control Structure Complex.
Only covers stoplogs in channels to control in-channel flow. Stoplogs outside the channel which form part of a line of flood defences are demountable defences.
SCSs_55_70_99_84Line21-11-2023
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Inspection ChamberAn opening to a confined space such as a culverted watercourse or underground services, providing access for testing, inspecting, maintaining and clearing blockages.SNPr_65_52_01Point21-11-2023
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JettyA solid structure that projects from the land out into a body of water, providing access to deeper water or to moored vessels. It must prevent currents and tides waves passing through it (otherwise use Pier).SJEn_32_50_44Line21-11-2023
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Mine AditA horizontal or near-horizontal entrance to an underground mine.TMSs_37_50_92_15Point21-11-2023
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Mine ShaftA vertical or near-vertical entrance to an underground mine.TNSL_30_10_93Point21-11-2023
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OutfallThe structure at the point where surface water drains discharge into a watercourse or the sea.
Outfalls may have a flap valve or gate fitted to prevent reversal of flow during flood flows. If the flap is simple non-return valve that opens and closes under the force of the flow, then this is an element of the outfall.
If there is a control gate such as a penstock which can be adjusted or controlled, this should be classified as a separate control gate asset.
Where smaller watercourses discharge into larger watercourses through culverted sections, these should be recorded as culverts with or without a control gate asset as applicable.
SUEn_32_85_59Point16-01-2024
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PierA raised structure that projects from the land over a body of water, providing access to deeper water or to moored vessels. Often on piles or pillars, it must allow some water currents and/or waves to pass beneath (otherwise use Jetty).SOEn_32_50_63Line21-11-2023
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RampA sloped access route between two different levels.TREF_35_20_30Point26-02-2024
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Sand TrapA structure for aerating groundwater. Also used to trap sand and soil particles.SXEn_32_85_75Point21-11-2023
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Security ScreenA screen which prevents unauthorised access to culverts, outfalls and channels.SYPr_25_96_35_37Point26-02-2024
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SlipwayA slope or ramp leading down into water (channel or sea) used for launching/landing boats.TSSL_32_50_79Point16-01-2024
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Soil Moisture TubeAn underground device for monitoring the moisture content of the soil.SVPr_80_51_51_80Point21-11-2023
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StepsA series of treads and risers as an access route between two different levels (not a ladder).
A separate Steps asset is only to be used where the steps provide access into an open channel, over an embankment, wall or other defence. Where the steps provide access to a structure, instrument, building, etc. they should be recorded as a Treads and Risers element of the structure, instrument, building, etc.
TTSs_35_10_25Point16-01-2024
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Stilling BasinA depressed area in a channel or reservoir that is deep enough to reduce the velocity of the water before it passes further downstream.STEn_32_85_84Point21-11-2023
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Stilling WellA chamber that is connected to a water body by one or more inlets. The water level in the stilling well will rise and fall with the level in the water body, but will not be subject to the turbulence that may be present in the water body, allowing for more accurate level measurement.SISL_32_85_84Point21-11-2023
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Surface Water TankA buried tank for collecting and storing surface water for further use or attenuation.SKSs_50_70_85_06Point21-11-2023
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Vortex Flow ControlA flow control structure which uses a vortex flow control device to control the flow.SHSL_32_85_94Point26-02-2024
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Water BafflesAn obstruction placed in the flow of water in order to redirect all or partial flow and create a variation in flow velocities. Each Baffle is to be recorded as a separate element.TLSs_55_70_99_96Point21-11-2023
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Water Distribution PipelineThe pipe work attached to a pumping station that delivers water to a water body. A pipeline may be attached to multiple pumping stations.TDEn_55_15_72Line21-11-2023
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WeirA low barrier that is built across the width of a watercourse to control the flow or upstream water level. There are many reasons this may be required such as flow gauging, offtakes, amenity or navigation.
A weir is fixed in one position, if it is adjustable (for example in height), it should be classified as a Control Gate or In Channel Stoplogs.
SWEn_32_85_97Line21-11-2023
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WellA shaft sunk into the ground for collecting groundwater. Wider diameter and usually hand dug.TWEn_32_85_98Point26-02-2024
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