Largest review of the water sector since privatisation to be carried out by Welsh and UK gov
The UK and Welsh Governments have introduced legislation with new powers to bring criminal charges against water execs.
The UK and Welsh Government's have introduced reforms to overhaul the water sector, including new powers to bring criminal charges against water executives and a ban on performance bonuses.
They say this marks a significant step towards addressing long-standing issues in the water industry and ensuring the sector becomes more accountable and environmentally responsible.
The Commission, chaired by Sir Jon Cunliffe, former Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, will focus on tackling the problems within the industry since privatisation.
They believe the the goal is to strengthen regulation, attract long-term investment, and secure the infrastructure needed to meet future challenges such as water scarcity and pollution in the UK's rivers, lakes, and seas.
Sir Jon Cunliffe said: "It is vital we deliver a better system to attract stable investment and speed up the building of water infrastructure."
"I look forward to working with experts from across the water sector to ensure it serves customers, investors, and the environment effectively."
The Independent Commission will produce recommendations in 2025, which will form the basis of further legislation aimed at improving water quality and infrastructure resilience.
Huw Irranca Davies, Wales’ Deputy First Minister, added: "This review comes at an urgent time for our water environment and industry."
"The collaboration between the UK and Welsh Governments reflects a shared commitment to improving water quality and the long-term resilience of the sector."
The reforms also include actions such as introducing criminal charges for persistent lawbreakers, banning executive bonuses if environmental standards are not met, and requiring real-time sewage outlet monitoring.