DAVIES: 'Failed Welsh water regulator must be closed and replaced'
Prominent Conservative MS renews call for NRW overhaul after critical review
ANDREW RT DAVIES, a prominent Conservative Member of the Senedd (MS) for South Wales Central, has reiterated his demand for the closure and replacement of Natural Resources Wales (NRW). His comments follow the publication of a critical independent review into the water sector.
The Independent Commission on the Regulation of Water and Sewerage Services in Wales, chaired by Sir John Cunliffe, highlighted significant concerns regarding regulatory oversight and environmental standards. Sir John emphasized that regulators must ensure private water companies operate in the public interest.
Mr. Davies stated: 'This damning review proves what I've long said, that Natural Resources Wales is not fit for purpose. Five of the twenty most polluted rivers in Britain are located in Wales, a result of Welsh Government's bloated environmental regulator being unable to cope with both its regulatory and commercial functions. NRW is far too big, and Labour Senedd ministers must intervene to ensure it's closed and replaced.'
NRW, established in 2013 through the merger of Environment Agency Wales, Countryside Council for Wales, and Forestry Commission Wales, is tasked with environmental protection, forestry management, flood defense, and aspects of the water industry.
Critics argue that NRW faces a conflict of interest due to its dual role in regulation and service provision. Environmental groups, including River Action UK and Surfers Against Sewage, have also called for stronger regulatory measures, citing over 100,000 sewage spills into Welsh rivers and coastal areas in 2023.
In response to the commission's findings, a Welsh Government spokesperson stated: 'We welcome the commission's report and will consider its recommendations carefully. Our priority is ensuring robust environmental protections and high standards of accountability for water companies in Wales.'
NRW has acknowledged challenges, including limited funding and increasing pressures from climate change and agricultural pollution, but maintains its commitment to improving river quality and enforcement.
Plaid Cymru has also expressed concerns about the current regulatory framework but has stopped short of endorsing Mr. Davies's call for NRW's closure. The party advocates for fundamental reform and greater transparency in managing Wales's environmental services.
The Welsh Government is expected to issue a formal response to the commission's recommendations later this summer.
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