A re-vision for water

A major reform of the England’s water sector is underway, marking the most significant overhaul since it was privatised in 1989. The proposals set out in the January 2026 White Paper build on the 2025 joint independent review of water governance in England and Wales, conducted in partnership with the Welsh government. While Wales has chosen to proceed with a consultative Green Paper, the UK government has advanced directly to a set of concrete actions that aim to reshape how water is managed, regulated and protected in England.

The White Paper responds to growing public frustration over sewage discharges, wastewater overflows, pollution incidents and the wider deterioration of environmental performance across the sector. Pressures on rivers, lakes and coastal waters have intensified over the last decade, prompting widespread calls for a stronger, more accountable regulatory regime. The government’s proposals aim to strengthen enforcement powers, enable criminal sanctions for pollution cover-ups and create a more joined-up approach to water and environmental management.

To support the ambition to improve water quality, enhance resilience and rebuild public trust, the government has committed £104 billion to upgrading England’s water infrastructure. Overall, the White Paper sets the stage for systemic reform and long-term sustainability in how England’s water resources are governed.