Water firms subject to new green watchdog from today

The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) has assumed its full functions and powers.

The new green watchdog, which was formally vested in November, is expected tomorrow to publish an eight-week consultation on its strategy. This will cover its functions, engagement plan and how it proposes to prioritise work.

In March, the OEP is due to publish its first report on implementation of the 25 Year Environment Plan.

Speaking at the Westminster Energy, Environment and Transport Forum last week. OEP chair, Dame Glenys Stacey, said water companies would fall under her organisation’s remit, given they deliver a public duty. They would, she said, be “caught fair and square”.

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