UK Government Introduces Historic Water Sector Reforms

New legislation aims to clean up waterways, punish violations, and attract significant private investment.

Environment Secretary Steve Reed announced the Water (Special Measures) Bill to address pollution and infrastructure issues.
Executives face prison sentences and loss of bonuses for non-compliance with new regulations.
The reforms are expected to unlock the largest private sector investment in the water industry’s history.
New measures include building reservoirs, upgrading water mains, and real-time monitoring of sewage overflows.
The legislation aims to balance immediate enforcement with long-term sector improvements and investment incentives.