The November 2025 Water Report Expert Forum article suggests there is strong support for a single regulator for water in England and Wales. The belief is this would bring integrated solutions, provide better clarity, better value, and drive better, more focused outcomes. It’s seen as a real opportunity for change, one that would bring massive benefits for the whole country.

However, there are risks involved in bringing the current multiple regulators together. Concerns were raised in the article about getting the right balance between the following composite interests – environment, finance, and customer. It is believed these risks could be managed if implementation was effective, long-term objectives were clear, and simplicity was championed.

It was suggested that the water companies’ primary purpose should be to protect public health through the provision of clean drinking water and effective sanitation, and secondly to improve the environment.

There was discussion around governance arrangements for an integrated regulator and the best qualities for leadership. The article covered suggestions that the regulator should be independent of Government and free from political interference. However, others think the opposite, that the regulator should be an arm of Government. All agree though that leadership qualities should be visionary, collaborative, purpose driven, and striving for improvement.

The article concludes with recommendations for the transition to a single regulator. Some prefer a speedy approach; others prefer taking time to get it right. Some experts believe it’s important to retain Ofwat staff for continuity, others suggest the importance of new blood. Overall, the idea of a new regulator is welcomed. The challenge is to establish one that is effective and meets everyone’s approval.

Link to the article