The Water Industry Supply Chain Network, a collaborative group of associations in the water sector supply chain, says that the the new Water Act will require much closer collaboration by key stakeholders.

The aims of the WISCN are to engage the key water trade industry organisations in ensuring their members’ roles are highlighted to the sector. It also seeks to facilitate open discussions on all aspects of the strategic management of water and sewerage services and proactively engage in the water price setting process.

Commenting on the passing of the Water Bill into legislation on 14 May, Dr David Smoker, who chairs the WISCN, said:

 “We welcome the provisions contained within the Act, particularly those which encourage innovation and sustainability. However, we recognise that delivery of the Act’s provisions will require much closer collaboration between all the stakeholders involved. The bodies representing the water industry supply chain look forward to working with all stakeholders to deliver these aspirations for the benefit of customers and the wider economy.”

WISCN membership is composed of the following organisations:

• SBWWI (Society of British Water & Wastewater Industries)
• British Water
• EUSkills (Energy & Utility Skills)
• CECA (Civil Engineering Contractors’ Association)
• PIG (Pipeline Industries Guild)
• NSA (National Sewerage Association)
• UKSTT (United Kingdom Society for Trenchless Technology)
• CPDA  (Clay Pipe Development Association)
• CPSA (Concrete Pipeline Systems Association)
• Water Industry Forum
• Pipe Jacking Association

Water UK: "each company is already working with stakeholders"

According to Water UK, the body which represents all major UK water and wastewater service suppliers at national and European level, customer and environment benefits are at the heart of the new Water Act. Water UK said the Act had lain down the challenge for the whole sector to secure the long-term resilience of water and sewerage supplies and services.

Commenting on the Act’s entry into force, Pamela Taylor, Chief Executive, Water UK, said:

"The Act enables us to build on the success of the last 25 years, by driving forward improvements for business customers and the environment and boosting innovation and growth.

"Today in many ways is just the start and there is plenty of hard work ahead. However, each company is already preparing for the retail market opening in 2017 and working with all our stakeholders to ensure that customers and society can rely on water and sewerage services being resilient now and in the future."

Note: The SBWWI provides the secretariat for the WISCN. Contact Carol Hickman at SBWWI on  01926 831530 or by email at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for further information.