URGENT UPDATE: The UK government has just announced a major overhaul of water regulation, scrapping the watchdog Ofwat in favor of a new, tougher regulatory body aimed at tackling sewage dumping, a move welcomed by North Devon’s MP, Ian Roome.
This announcement comes after the Independent Water Commission review led by Jon Cunliffe, which highlighted serious shortcomings in the current system. Environment Secretary Steve Reed confirmed the decision earlier today, stating that the existing framework is “broken” and needs urgent reform to protect local environments like North Devon’s beaches.
The new regulator will have enhanced supervisory powers similar to those overseeing banks after the financial crisis of 2008. Experts will be embedded within water companies to ensure compliance with environmental laws and proper management of wastewater treatment.
North Devon has experienced numerous sewage and wastewater spills recently, with South West Water agreeing to a staggering £24 million enforcement package earlier this month following an investigation by Ofwat. Roome expressed relief, stating, “This is a victory for local people who have suffered from sewage spills that threaten our beautiful beaches and rivers.”
“We Lib Dems have been calling for this continuously, so I’m pleased that action is finally being taken,” Roome added, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
He pointed out that South West Water’s track record includes the longest sewage spill in the UK in 2024, underscoring the need for immediate action. “This wouldn’t be happening without the incredible support we received from people across North Devon at the general election last year. I heard from countless people who were furious about the state of our local rivers and beaches,” Roome said.
The urgency of this reform is heightened by the recent findings from Ofwat, which revealed that South West Water had failed to adequately build and operate its wastewater systems, leading to severe environmental violations. The company did not dispute these findings but claimed some issues were ‘historical’ and proposed a £24 million investment program to reduce spills further.
Roome confirmed his commitment to fighting for cleaner waterways, stating, “The government must now get on with setting up a new, stronger regulator to hold water companies to account. I will be relentlessly fighting to ensure sewage spills are stopped, bills brought down, and our waterways cleaned up for everyone to enjoy in future.”
This significant regulatory change is set to impact not only North Devon but the entire South West region, as officials work to ensure that local communities no longer suffer from the consequences of poor water management. The new regulator aims to restore trust and protect vital natural resources across the area.
As this situation develops, experts and local residents alike will be watching closely to see how these changes will be implemented and their effect on the environment. Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
