The Independent Water Commission, led by Sir John Cunliffe, has published its interim report which sets out key changes needed to reform the UK water sector.
Launched in October 2024, this review was commissioned by the government due to public concern over sewage spills into UK rivers and seas, and the rising cost of water bills.
The findings of the report were informed by the Commission’s Call for Evidence, which ran from 27 February – 23 April and received more than 50,000 responses from the public, environmental groups, regulators, and the water industry.
In total, this report lists five key areas which need addressing to tackle the major challenges facing the water industry, and to ensure the restoration of our rivers, lakes, and seas back to good health. These recommendations include clearer direction from the government, stronger regulation of water companies, bringing decisions on water systems closer to local communities, and a greater focus on responsible, long-term investors.
The interim report is available below, with the full report arriving later this summer:
Image by Stewart Lane.
