'Deep-rooted, systemic' failures mean water industry needs reset of firms and watchdog

THE water sector is plagued by “deep-rooted, systemic” failures and needs fundamental reform, a major review has concluded.

- By Steph Spyro

Laws, regulation and infrastructure need urgent changes, says the Independent Water Commission, which was given the job by the UK and Welsh governments of assessing the industry since privatisation.

The interim report, published yesterday, comes amid widespread public anger over pollution, bills and bonuses given to bosses.

It is also against the backdrop of US investment giant KKR abandoning its rescue of debt-ridden Thames Water.

Sir Jon Cunliffe, who carried out the review, warned: “There is no simple, single change, no matter how radical, that will deliver the fundamental reset that is needed for the water sector.