RYA welcomes largest review of water sector since privatisation

The commission will have an independent chair, Sir Jon Cunliffe, a former deputy governor of the Bank of England. He will be supported by advisers with a range of expertise in the water sector, including the environment. 

This commission is part of the new government's commitment to clean up the water industry and comes alongside the Water (Special Measures) Bill that is currently being debated in Parliament. The commission will report its findings back to the government next year with opportunities for public engagement and a public consultation. The commission will take expert evidence and there will be opportunities for public engagement and a public consultation.

The objectives of the commission touch on the key demands of the Clean Water Sports Alliance, and looks at a range of issues that need to be addressed to fix the broken water sector. These include ensuring the water industry delivers best value for the environment and public health, ensuring water regulators are effective in holding water companies to account and ensuring water companies are financially and operational resilient with secure infrastructure that is maintained over the long term. In doing this, they’ll take account of the interest of consumers, the public, and those who enjoy spending time on the water. 

Phil Horton, the RYA’s Sustainability Manager, said “We welcome this announcement as a substantive plan to review and reform the water sector, following the declaration of intent made by the Water (Special Measures) Bill. We look forward to presenting evidence to the Commission on behalf of our members, and to the Government acting swiftly on its recommendations. Nothing short of complete reform and a total focus on clean water over profit will ensure a healthy water environment for people and nature.”

For RYA associated clubs and members looking to share findings about water quality testing that they have carried out, there is an online report that can be completed where you can help the RYA build a picture of water quality across the UK, and any impact on events and activities.   You can also use this form to provide details of observed environmental incidents such as sewage discharge, algal blooms or weed overgrowth.