Water cycle management to ensure water quality and availability in 41 municipalities in Cantabria, Spain

Applus+ has already started the project and is currently developing water safety plans and the hydrogeological studies required to improve knowledge of groundwater resources and assess structural leakage levels in drinking water and raw water systems, in addition to preparing Drought Emergency Plans for 13 of the municipalities included in the project.

The project is being developed in a context of particular importance for small municipalities at risk of depopulation, where improved water management will be key to ensuring the availability, quality, and sustainability of water resources. In addition, the initiatives will enhance technical knowledge of water catchments and supply systems, contributing to more efficient, resilient management aligned with current regulations, while also helping to protect public health.

The contract will be executed over a nine-month period and will involve a multidisciplinary Applus+ team composed of professionals from the Construction, Environment, and Consulting divisions, including personnel from the Asturias-Cantabria and Central Region offices. This combination of expertise makes it possible to comprehensively address the various technical studies required, from the evaluation of water supply infrastructure to the analysis of environmental risks and climate-related risks. One of the project’s main challenges is the need for continuous coordination with the different municipalities involved, reinforcing the importance of close and ongoing monitoring throughout the execution of the work.

This project adds to Applus+’s recent experience in similar initiatives, strengthening its position in projects focused on improving water governance, sustainable water resource planning, and climate change adaptation. One of the contract’s main challenges is meeting deadlines in municipalities with limited resources, for which continuous monitoring and active coordination with the participating local councils have been established.