The UK could face a drinking water shortage by the mid-2030s if immediate action is not taken, according to a warning from Labour cabinet minister Steve Reed. Reed emphasized the urgent need for investment in the country’s water infrastructure to prevent a crisis. Water companies are proposing an 84% increase in bills by 2030, a move that Reed described as “eye-watering.”
This concern over water scarcity has prompted the government to launch a comprehensive review of the water industry, the most significant in almost 40 years. The commission, led by Sir Jon Cunliffe, aims to address the shortcomings in the water sector and ensure sustainable water management. Recent scandals involving sewage dumping in lakes and rivers have underscored the need for fundamental changes in the industry.
Reed highlighted that the lack of adequate water infrastructure is hindering economic growth and development in various parts of the country. Cities like Cambridge and Oxford are facing challenges related to water supply and sewage systems, limiting their ability to expand housing and infrastructure. Without substantial improvements in reservoirs and infrastructure, the demand for drinking water could surpass the available supply by the mid-2030s.
While Reed acknowledged the need for increased investment in the water sector, he ruled out the possibility of nationalization due to the significant financial implications. Instead, the focus is on addressing regulatory failures and governance issues to attract the necessary funding to prevent substantial bill increases. The minister also defended his acceptance of football tickets from a company associated with a water firm, stating that it did not influence his decisions regarding water policies.
In response to the looming water scarcity, Ofwat has proposed significant projects to enhance water supply, including the construction of new reservoirs and the replacement of aging water mains pipes. Companies failing to meet leakage reduction targets will face penalties, and a Water Efficiency Fund has been established to promote water conservation and reduce consumption.
Carla Denyer, co-leader of the Green Party, advocated for public ownership of water resources, emphasizing that water is a fundamental human necessity that should not be driven by profit motives. Despite calls for nationalization, the government’s focus remains on regulatory reforms and infrastructure upgrades to ensure a sustainable and reliable water supply for the future.