Organisations from all parts of the water sector are today joining forces to create a new, ambitious vision for the future.

The move, coordinated by regulators, government, industry and the Consumer Council for Water, will see the sector develop a new long-term vision to guide it towards having the most positive impact possible on society and the environment.

The water sector is confronting a range of profound challenges including climate change, population growth and greater customer expectations. In recent years it has also come under pressure to prove it is doing the right things for customers and the environment and acting in the right way to secure continued public trust.

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

“There is no escaping the enormous challenges facing the water sector which we will only overcome if everyone is pulling in the same direction, towards a common vision.”

“Many people don’t feel they get a fair deal from their water company but the industry can begin to change this by building a stronger bond with their customers and striving for excellence in everything they do. Companies also need to show they can be trusted as stewards of our water resources for current and future generations. The sector cannot afford to fail consumers or the environment.”

The sector now wants to develop a clear, common vision which all parties in the industry will work to achieve in order to meet these long-term challenges and shape a positive future for customers,.

Following discussion with customers and stakeholders, three common themes have emerged to form the basis of a draft joint vision :

• importance of the sector delivering everyday excellence
• long-term stewardship of the environment, assets and relationships with customers
• importance for the sector to add value - value for money as well as adding value to communities and the environment

The sector has today published its draft vision to invite feedback from customers and a wide range of those interested in the water sector. The responses will help shape the new vision which the sector aims to unveil in the autumn.

As well as exploring a draft joint vision for the sector, Ofwat has also published its own draft strategy to engage on how an ambitious new direction may be delivered.

Michael Roberts Chief Executive of Water UK, the body which represents all the UK water companies, said:

“We all need to work together – companies, customers, regulators, policymakers and stakeholders – to deliver a flourishing future for water. Public policy needs to walk in step with public expectations, and industry needs to work in harmony with the environment and the communities they operate in.

“ Leadership from water companies in representing the best in responsible business practice is essential, which is why we published our Public Interest Commitment recently, reinforcing our determination to put the public interest at the heart of everything we do.   We look forward to making that commitment a reality, as an integral part of a new vision for the water sector.”

Environment Agency Chief Executive, Sir James Bevan, said the water industry faces significant challenges from climate change and population growth which must be met while improving the environment for future generations. “Together with government and other regulators we will encourage water companies to be more bold and strategic to meet these challenges,” he added.