In 2026 Southern Water partnered with NatureSpace to run a strategic licensing scheme for great crested newts – saving time and money whilst funding large-scale, long-term conservation that delivers greater benefits for wildlife than ‘traditional’ site-by-site licensing.

As of April 2026, Southern Water holds a great crested newt licence which covers their entire operational area. Any works by Southern Water or their sub-contractors can be covered. NatureSpace facilitates the scheme on Southern Water’s behalf, handling all project applications, assessments, administration and habitat delivery.