Governments launch independent water commission in largest review of the sector since privatisation

The UK and Welsh governments have launched an Independent Water Commission to overhaul the country’s water sector and strengthen its regulatory framework.

This marks the most extensive review since the industry was privatised over three decades ago.

Announced today, Wednesday 23 October, the Commission aims to tackle long-standing systemic issues in the water sector and ensure the necessary investment to address pollution and modernise water infrastructure.

Former Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, Sir Jon Cunliffe, has been appointed as Chair to lead the initiative.

In a joint statement, the UK and Welsh governments highlighted the urgent need to clean up polluted rivers, lakes, and seas, while ensuring a stable regulatory environment that attracts investment to improve the country’s ageing water infrastructure.

The Commission’s findings will inform new legislation aimed at achieving these goals.

Secretary of State for Environment, Steve Reed, said:

“Our waterways are polluted, and our water system urgently needs fixing. That is why today we have launched a Water Commission to attract the investment we need to clean up our waterways and rebuild our broken water infrastructure.”

The Commission will deliver its recommendations next year, focusing on measures to restore Britain’s waters and secure infrastructure upgrades.

These recommendations are expected to shape further reforms, which could see billions injected into the economy. This comes in light of the need for the UK to source an additional 5 billion litres of water per day by 2050.

The review forms part of a wider governmental effort to create a more sustainable water system, ensuring it serves both public and environmental interests.

It follows the Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s call for regulation to support economic growth during the recent International Investment Summit.

Sir Jon Cunliffe, whose experience spans decades of work in public policy and regulation, expressed optimism about the Commission’s mission.

“I’m honoured to be appointed as chair of the government’s new Water Commission. It is vital we deliver a better system to attract stable investment and speed up the building of water infrastructure.”

The Commission will be supported by a panel of experts from the regulatory, environmental, engineering, and investor communities.

Together, they will address the sector’s major challenges, including pollution, water scarcity, and outdated infrastructure.

Huw Irranca-Davies, Deputy First Minister for Wales, emphasised the importance of the review:

“This vital review couldn’t come at a more urgent time for our water environment and water industry. Both the Welsh and UK Governments are determined to improve water quality and the resilience of the water sector for future generations.”

The Commission’s work is expected to pave the way for long-term improvements in water quality, infrastructure investment, and public trust.

The UK Government and Welsh Government will respond to the recommendations once they are presented next year, with plans to take forward the proposed changes.

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