BREAKING NEWS: The UK government has just announced the scrapping of the water regulator Ofwat, replacing it with a new, tougher authority aimed at combating sewage dumping in North Devon and beyond. This decision has been hailed as a major victory by local MP Ian Roome, who has long advocated for stricter oversight of water companies.
Environment Secretary Steve Reed confirmed the overhaul during a press briefing earlier today, following a damning report from the Independent Water Commission. The report labeled the current system “broken” and recommended a new body with enhanced supervisory powers, akin to the oversight established for banks after the 2008 financial crisis. Experts will now be appointed to ensure compliance within water companies.
The need for this change is urgent, as North Devon has faced numerous sewage spills in recent years, severely impacting local beaches and river conditions. Earlier this month, South West Water agreed to a staggering £24 million enforcement package after an investigation by Ofwat revealed systemic failures in managing wastewater treatment.
Roome expressed his enthusiasm for the new regulations, stating, “This is a victory for local people. North Devon’s beaches and rivers are among the best aspects of our community, yet they have been compromised by sewage spills and the shortcomings of Ofwat.”
He highlighted that South West Water was responsible for the longest sewage spill in the UK in 2024, emphasizing the critical need for reform. “This wouldn’t have been possible without the passionate support we received from North Devon residents during the last election. Many were outraged by the state of our rivers and beaches,” Roome added.
The recent Ofwat investigation revealed that South West Water had failed to operate its wastewater treatment facilities adequately, lacking proper management systems to meet legal obligations. The company, while accepting the findings, described some issues as “historical” and proposed a ring-fenced investment program of £24 million to mitigate future spills and establish a Nature Recovery Fund.
Roome reiterated his commitment to ensure that water companies are held accountable, stating, “The fight is far from over. The government must act swiftly to implement a stronger regulator, stop sewage spills, reduce bills, and restore our waterways for future generations.”
Stay tuned for updates as the government moves forward with these critical changes to water regulation in the UK.
