Stef Nienaltowski, Chair of the Independent Challenge Group (ICG) for Portsmouth Water which formally launched in the last week of June, says a key aspect of the ICG’s role will be early involvement in major projects.

With origins dating back to 2012 and originally named the Customer Scrutiny Panel (CSP), the Group has grown substantially and is now comprised of 22 volunteer members, including local councillors, representatives from Citizens Advice, University of Portsmouth and the main public sector bodies such as the Environment Agency, the Consumer Council for Water and Natural England.

Stef Nienaltowski commented:

“This expansion reflects the increasing importance and complexity of the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for our water services. It also aligns with the outcome of the UK's Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 which aims to improve the service water companies provide in support of the environment and its customers.

“Under my chairmanship, this dynamic group will take on the vital responsibility of reviewing Portsmouth Water's performance and its objectives throughout the upcoming Asset Management Period, AMP8, which spans from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2030.

“The measures we will be scrutinising are set by Ofwat and demand year-on-year improvements across crucial areas: the protection of our environment, ensuring the best outcomes for the customers of Portsmouth Water, and achieving a challenging set of targets for the operational performance of the company.”

The ICG will meet at least twice per year and produce a report to the Portsmouth Water Board annually to summarise the Panel’s findings, which will accompany the Risk and Compliance Statement or Assurance Report produced by the company in its Annual Report.