An Independent Commission has been launched to make a comprehensive review of the UK’s water infrastructure, which has been plagued by a series of problems.
An Independent Commission has been launched to make a comprehensive review of the UK’s water infrastructure, which has been plagued by a series of problems in recent years, including excessive pollution and a failure to make necessary infrastructure upgrades.
New Civil Engineer reports that the results of the Commission are expected to be delivered next year. It may include recommendations for speeding up the delivery of new infrastructure, such as pipeline networks, sewer systems and urban drainage systems, and to make necessary repairs to tunnels and other concrete structures.
Other key aims are expected to include improving or restoring aquatic ecosystems and reducing incidences of pollution.
Global Infrastructure Investor Association chief executive Jon Phillips said: “The secretary of state should be congratulated for acting swiftly to put in place this much needed review and reset of the water sector.”
He added: “No parties involved in the sector can be happy with the current arrangements, and that includes investors whose capital is vital to addressing current and future environmental challenges.”
“The government has heard loud and clear that the sector needs both a long-term plan and a regulatory framework that places greater emphasis on attracting investment. We look forward to the opportunity to support the Commission’s work and hope that its findings can be put into practice at the earliest opportunity.”
The UK and Welsh governments will work together closely throughout the process to ensure that future clean water supplies are safeguarded, in a way that supports both the environment, society and the economy.