The Cunliffe Commission’s report recognises that that Wales is different to England when it comes to the regulatory and legislative framework for water and that it is a devolved issue.
Decisions and water policy based on human health must not be to the detriment of ecological health of rivers.
Tuesday 3rd June, 2025
The joint Independent Water Commission published its interim report of its review of the water sector in England and Wales today. While we wait for the final report in the summer, here is Afonydd Cymru’s views on the interim findings:
Welcome direction
While recognising it is an “interim” report, Afonydd Cymru welcomes the general direction it is heading in. The report acknowledges the levels of public anger with regards the state of UK rivers and the loss in trust in the regulatory system.
Differences between Wales and England
Encouragingly, the Cunliffe Commission recognises throughout its report the differences between Wales and England in terms of the regulatory and legislative landscapes for water, as well as the different water company model.
River problems more than water companies
We welcome the Commission’s recognition that the issues with rivers are much more than the water industry and that there has been a lack of strategic direction by Government on other sectors, especially agriculture.
Stronger regulation and enforcement
The report acknowledges that the ability of Natural Resources Wales to enforce compliance with standards has been affected by capacity and capability challenges. We welcome any recommendations that the environmental regulator should focus on enforcement and monitoring and for it to adopt a less risk adverse culture.
Cross border rivers
While the report supports a stronger need for Government direction along with clearer remits and duties of regulators, questions remain about the management of cross border rivers.
Although the report recognises challenges with cross border rivers, we have no real indication of how these might be overcome. History shows that to date, collaboration has been ineffective in delivering the actions and outcomes required. We need to see clear recommendations on how to manage cross border rivers in the full report.
Water company structure
We also look forward to the final report’s recommendations when it comes to water company structure and ownership models. The Commission is looking at the feasibility of transfers to Welsh Water type, not-for-profit models and the benefits these give rise to. In principle, we support this model but it must be accompanied by high performance. Welsh Water’s current environmental performance is simply not good enough.
Public health
Finally, the Commission is considering whether an update to the current legislation should include public health objectives. We would advise caution in this area. It should be remembered that public health issues in rivers are multi-faceted and not just a water company issue. Decisions and policy over rivers based on human health must not be to the detriment of ecological health.
More Information:
Press release: Independent Water Commission publishes interim findings – GOV.UK
Interim report
English: Independent Water Commission: review of the water sector – GOV.UK
Cymraeg: Y Comisiwn Dŵr Annibynnol: adolygiad o’r sector dŵr – GOV.UK