Thames21’s response to the government’s launch of an Independent Commission to review the water industry

Thames21 welcomes the news that the government has launched an independent review into the water industry. This is a step in the right direction.

Our rivers have been suffering for far too long. The whole system is not working. Water companies are failing to invest in ageing infrastructure and the regulators are failing to ensure that they deliver best outcomes for the environment and customers. The system has largely overlooked nature-based solutions, which will play a vital part of tackling the huge challenges which our rivers face, especially in the light of the climate emergency.

Rivers across London and the Thames Basin need protecting from the damage caused by sewage, road runoff and agricultural pollution.

Sticking plasters will not fix our broken water system. A comprehensive review must take into consideration the land feeding into our rivers (their catchments).

We ask that the review is conducted in a timely fashion, that it takes into consideration recent proposals the government has made to overhaul the water sector, and that its recommendations are implemented without delay.

We look forward to playing our part in this review by contributing evidence alongside other rivers trusts and key stakeholders.