FWR publishes recommendations to support delivery of a new vision for water
A new report from the Foundation for Water Reserch (FWR) has reinforced calls for regional water planning and an evidence-led approach to reforming the sector. At a crucial moment for the process of reforming the water sector, the report highlights evidence that could help to deliver reforms in practice.
The report says: “The UK water sector is in critical need of reform. Repeated pressures have laid bare the limitations of the current system and the inherent flaws of taking a siloed approach to water management. Creating a resilient water system that delivers for people and nature is contingent on a systems-based approach to its management. Incremental reform will not be enough; a transformative approach to the way we govern, regulate, and plan our water system is vital.”
In response to the Government’s white paper: ‘A new vision for water’, published in March 2026, the FWR has convened cross-sector discussions to explore how reforms can be implemented effectively and provide key recommendations for policy makers to support reform delivery.
The FWR’s report provides views on what a systems approach to water management should focus on and how this can be supported by delivering two pivotal aspects of water reform – establishing a regional water planning function and embedding a data-informed approach to water management.
Critically, the FWR is also calling for action to tackle water sector challenges to continue in parallel with water sector reform under existing legislation, so that action is not delayed and to prevent further deterioration to our water supply and environment.
The FWR provides eight recommendations to embed a systems and outcomes-based approach to water management and ultimately deliver a new vision for water that supports thriving people, a healthy economy, and a flourishing environment.
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For further information please contact:
Ethny Childs, Head of Communities and Partnerships, ethny@the-ies.org
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