Written question WQ100610
- Asked by
- Paul DaviesConservative
- To be answered by
- Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability
- Tabled
- Due
- Answered
- Time to answer
- 12 days
Question
Will the Cabinet Minister provide an update on the proposed Welsh economic regulator for water and associated system planning functions?
Answer
Answered by Cabinet Minister for Rural Resilience and Sustainability (Llyr Gruffydd)
The Welsh Government is progressing work to establish the new Welsh water regulator as part of wider water sector reform and our commitment to ensure regulation better reflects the needs of Wales.
The previous Government’s Green Paper consultation Shaping the Future of Water Governance in Wales, set out initial proposals for water reform. A summary of the responses we received was published on 14 September 2026. We are carefully considering the evidence and views received before making decisions on the next stage of reform.
Our aim is to secure a regulatory framework that is aligned with Welsh priorities, strengthens accountability, and supports better outcomes for customers, communities and the environment.
Work is progressing at pace on the design of a new Welsh water regulator, including the scope of system planning functions. Establishment of the regulator depends on the necessary powers being devolved and future legislation being brought forward. Our focus is on getting the arrangements right, ensuring there is no gap in oversight, and creating a regulator that is properly equipped to deliver for the people and environment of Wales.