Aldersgate Group calls for water strategy to empower regions on growth and health

(by Karma Loveday)

Echoing the recommendations of the Independent Water Commission, the Aldersgate Group has called for a new National Water Strategy and for this to be delivered through new Regional Water Authorities within a much tidier and clearer regulatory framework.

The Group – a multi-stakeholder alliance championing a competitive and environmentally sustainable economy – has published a new report, The business case for a national water framework. This is cognisant of the Burnham Government’s devolution agenda, and argued clearer strategy and regulation would empower places and regions to put water at the heart of economic growth, public health and a flourishing environment, instead of water quantity and quality being a risk or a barrier.

The Group said businesses want to be part of the solution, but are being held back by misaligned incentives, poorly enforced regulation and a lack of clarity about where water will be needed and where responsibilities lie. While Water White Paper policies are welcome, “as they stand, these will not address these concerns”. 

The report recommended:

• A National Water Strategy and a National Water System Operator established to oversee national delivery.

• Statutory Regional Water Authorities, with input from regional mayors, translating national goals into place-based action.

• Aligning rules across sectors so environmental duties are not subordinated to commercial ones, empowering the new water regulator.

• Unlocking the estimated £300bn needed in the water sector over 25 years by giving business and investors clear, structured routes in.

  
  

Aldersgate Group board member, Guy Thompson, said: “If we want more resilient water infrastructure, we need to pay at some point in the lifetime of the assets. There is a way through this: by moving to outcome-based regulation that incentivises the most cost-effective solutions at system scale. This Aldersgate Group report provides an important pan-economy perspective on how the water system could evolve to unlock long-term resilience for the benefit of all water users as well as the natural environment.”

Water Resources East managing director Daniel Johns said: “Sir Jon Cunliffe’s number one recommendation last summer was for ministers to develop a new National Water Strategy, but this was conspicuous in its absence when they responded with A New Vision for Water in January. This new report from the Aldersgate Group reinforces the importance of such a statement of long-term targets and policies to drive the whole water system for the years ahead. Without it, the system risks being rudderless, when businesses and civil society need direction and confidence to invest.”