The water white paper, published by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs sets out powers for a new industry regulator, with the aim of tougher oversight and stronger accountability for water companies.
For the first time in two decades, a chief engineer will sit inside the new single water regulator. Defra says that this will 鈥渂ring back the hands-on checks of water infrastructure Ofwat has failed to provide, ending the days of water firms marking their own homework, resulting in crumbling pipes and unreliable services鈥�.聽
The new regulator will introduce an 鈥楳OT鈥� approach for water company infrastructure, requiring condition monitoring surveys 鈥� health checks 鈥� on pipes, pumps and more. The idea is that this will promote a culture of preventative maintenance rather than crisis management.
Environment secretary Emma Reynolds said: 鈥淭hese are once-in-a-generation reforms for our water system 鈥� tough oversight, real accountability, and no more excuses. Water companies will have nowhere to hide from poor performance, customers will get the service they deserve, and investors will see a system built for the future. 聽This builds on the tough action we鈥檝e already delivered, from record investment to banning unfair bonuses.鈥�
A 2026 transition plan will set out the path to this new system, and a new water reform bill will bring forward the legislation needed enable the system to take effect.
Environmental Industries Commission chief executive Kate Jennings said: 鈥淲e welcome the government鈥檚 water white paper and its focus on building a resilient, forward-looking water system. The priorities for our members have always been rapid delivery of long-term water planning, strong governance, and a central role for engineering and environmental features in design, appraisal, and assurance. This white paper is a step-change in meeting that.
鈥淥ur sector has global expertise in turning these ambitions into practical, cost-effective solutions. With clear delivery mechanisms and close collaboration with government and industry, the UK can strengthen water resilience while supporting growth and high-quality jobs and our members will be integral strategic delivery partners in achieving the aims of the white paper.鈥�