New Water Regulations in Wales: What You Need to Know

In a significant move to tackle pollution and improve environmental management, the Welsh Government has announced the commencement of new water industry regulations. These regulations, set to come into force on 1st September 2025, are part of the Water Act (Special Measures) 2025, and they aim to introduce stricter controls on water pollution and drainage management in Wales.

Key Highlights:

1. Pollution Reduction Plans:

   • From September, water companies operating predominantly or entirely within Wales will be required to develop and publish annual plans specifically aimed at reducing pollution incidents. This is part of a new mandate introduced under Section 3 of the Water Act (Special Measures) 2025, which incorporates new sections 205A, 205B, and 205C into the Water Industry Act 1991. These sections emphasize the importance of transparency and accountability in environmental management.

2. Nature-Based Solutions:

   • Furthermore, Section 5 of the Act introduces a requirement for sewerage companies to explain how they will use nature-based solutions in their drainage and sewerage management plans. This initiative aims to enhance sustainable practices and integrate natural processes into infrastructure planning.

Official Approval:

• The regulations were officially made by the Welsh Ministers on 30th July 2025, under the authority granted by Section 17(4)(a) and (c) of the Water Act (Special Measures) 2025. Huw Irranca-Davies, the Deputy First Minister and Cabinet Secretary for Climate Change and Rural Affairs, endorsed these regulations, highlighting the government's commitment to combating climate change and promoting rural affairs.

What This Means for Wales:

• These changes represent a proactive step towards safeguarding Wales's natural resources. By compelling water and sewerage companies to prioritize pollution reduction and adopt innovative, nature-based solutions, the Welsh Government aims to ensure a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for its communities.

As these regulations take effect, they mark the beginning of a more environmentally conscious era in Welsh water management, reflecting the growing global emphasis on sustainability and ecological responsibility.