The UK’s water sector just had its biggest shake up in decades. The Independent Review, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, didn’t hold back. It calls for major reforms to tackle pollution, improve transparency and restore public trust.
From overhauling regulation to mandating smart meters and cracking down on sewage spills, the recommendations are bold and far reaching.
Chris Parry, EPVI National Sales Manager, comments – “We’re encouraged by the review’s focus on restoring confidence, modernising infrastructure and tackling pollution. Improving water quality starts with better insight, and that’s where we can help. From turbidity sensors and dosing control to smart instrumentation for real-time monitoring, we work with key partners to supply the technology that helps water companies detect issues early, reduce contamination risks and meet tighter environmental standards. Cleaner water isn’t just a target, it’s measurable. And with the right tools in place, it’s achievable”.
Here are our three standout takeaways from the review that could reshape the future of water in England and Wales –
1. Replace fragmented regulation with a single body
The review recommends replacing Ofwat, the Drinking Water Inspectorate, and relevant functions of the Environment Agency with a single regulator for England (and one for Wales). This would improve accountability, reduce duplication and strengthen oversight of performance, pollution and investment.
2. Mandate smart meters and long-term planning
Smart water meters should become compulsory, especially in water stressed regions, to help reduce demand. The report also calls for a 25-year national water strategy with legally backed milestones and regional planning bodies to guide delivery.
3. Improve customer protection and pollution control
Key proposals include a national social tariff for low-income households, stronger rules on company ownership and debt, a new Water Ombudsman and stricter pollution monitoring. The aim is to rebuild public trust and improve water quality.
Why these matter:
- They represent a once in a generation reset of England and Wales’s water governance framework.
- Focused on restoring public trust, attracting long term investment and ensuring resilient infrastructure.
- They acknowledge trade-offs between keeping bills low and investing where it matters, preferring transparency over rhetoric.
Working with Utilities companies, Essco provide valves and instrumentation to manage the quality, flow and pressure of water throughout the entire treatment cycle, from raw water intake to final discharge or reuse.
Contact our experienced team to schedule a site visit or discuss your project.