The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) and Welsh Government have appointed the new chair of the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater).

Ensuring water consumers’ views shape the decisions of water companies, regulators and policy makers and building a more resilient water sector that reflects people’s growing concern for the environment will be among the most pressing priorities for Robert Light, the organisation’s Northern Chair for the past four years.

The former Environment Agency board member succeeds Alan Lovell, whose term as chair of the independent water consumer body for England and Wales came to an end earlier in the spring.

Commenting on his appointment, he said:

“It’s a great privilege to represent water consumers at a time when the industry is facing unprecedented scrutiny. Trust in companies will seep away unless they can convince customers they are motivated by the same things they value.”

“People have never been more concerned about the future of our environment and need to know companies can be trusted to look after the water resources our lives depend on. They also want to see a more compassionate side to the industry that goes the extra mile to help the most vulnerable customers. My aim will be to ensure that everyone realises that the voice of CCWater is the voice of water customers and that it must be listened to.”

Robert Light has also recently been appointed Head Commissioner of the Independent Commission on Civil Aviation Noise (ICCAN).

Tony Smith, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council for Water, said:

“Rob has been an outstanding advocate for consumers in the North of England and I expect him to build on that good work as our new chair.

“His and our immediate task is to make sure we secure the best possible deal for customers as the price review nears its conclusion. The foundations are in place – now it’s time to finish the job.”

The new Chair has been appointed for a period of three years until 5 June 2022.