Water
We deal with all aspects of water policy in England, including water supply and resources, and the regulatory systems for the water environment and the water industry. These include drinking water quality; the quality of water in rivers, lakes and estuaries, coastal and marine waters; sewage treatment; and reservoir safety.
We work closely with the:
- Environment Agency, which manages water resources and enforces water quality standards;
- Drinking Water Inspectorate, which regulates the quality of drinking water; and
- Ofwat, which is responsible for economic regulation of the water industry.
The Flood and Water Management Bill introduced on to into Parliament on the 19 November 2009, will provide better, more sustainable management of flood risk for people, homes and businesses, help safeguard community groups from unaffordable rises in surface water drainage charges, the safety of reservoirs will be improved with modern, risk based regulation and will protect water supplies to the consumer.
Latest news
- 6 November 2009 - Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government jointly published their summary of response to the consultation on proposals for time limiting of water abstraction licences.
- 22 October 2009 – Defra and the Welsh Assembly Government jointly published their summary of responses to the consultation on implementing the abstraction elements of the Water Act 2003. Government will now consider the responses and the issues that have been raised. The Government Response will be published prior to the implementation of new regulations.
- 3 August 2009 - Environment Secretary Hilary Benn, announces his decisions on the next steps for the water companies’ water resources management plans.
- 23 July 2009 - PN 03/09: Ofwat holds bills down for customers (PDF, 100KB)
Future water and sewerage charges 2010-15: draft determinations (PDF, 2 MB)
England and Wales: Future household water and sewerage bills 2010-15 (PDF, 100KB)
City briefing – draft determinations (PDF, 600 KB) - 7 July 2009 - Updated product and criteria lists for the Water Efficient Enhanced Capital Allowances
- 29 June 2009 - Interim report of Walker Review of Charging published.
- 25 June 2009 - Government publishes six-month Pitt progress report
- 22 April 2009 - final report of Professor Martin Cave's independent review of competition and innovation in water markets is published.
Water strategy - Future Water
The Government launched its new water strategy for England, Future Water on 7 February 2008. The strategy sets out a framework for water management in England.
Contacts
Page last modified: 19 November 2009