Mayors Could Be Given Powers to Oversee Water Companies Under Government Plan
The British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) reports that mayors and other local political leaders could be given the authority to supervise water companies under a new government proposal. This plan aims to create nine regional bodies responsible for overseeing water company activities, as recommended by Sir John Cunliffe's Independent Water Commission in June 2022.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has made improving the water industry a priority since taking office, addressing the challenges faced by English and Welsh water customers due to rising bills. While previous ideas from the Cunliffe report were adopted, the suggestion for regional bodies was not.
Currently, officials within the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) are considering the idea of these regional bodies, which would have the power to examine water company spending and hold executives accountable for bills and sewage discharges.
The Cunliffe review suggests that these regional bodies could include a mayor or local government representative, an independent chair, experts, and representatives from affected sectors like transport and agriculture.
A Whitehall source notes that this is just one of several concepts being explored to enhance public control over water companies. A government spokesperson emphasized the need for stronger regulation, enforcement, and accountability to ensure water companies serve customers and protect the environment.
This proposal comes as the number of complaints about water companies to the industry watchdog, the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), increased by a record 84% in one year, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with rising bills and other issues.