Overview

This bill aims to prevent water companies from discharging untreated sewage into rivers and other inland waters in England. It places a legal duty on water companies to take all reasonable steps to prevent this, and sets out various measures to achieve this goal, including improved monitoring, reporting, and investment in infrastructure.

Description

The Sewage (Inland Waters) Bill amends the Water Industry Act 1991. It introduces a new duty on water companies in England to take all reasonable steps to prevent untreated sewage discharge into inland waters. This includes:

• Maintaining and publishing a register of combined sewer overflows (CSOs) and other assets that might discharge sewage.
• Publishing biannual reports on the operational status of these assets.
• Progressively installing continuous monitoring of all sewage discharges and publishing the data.
• Monitoring and publishing reports on the quality and duration of discharges from CSOs.
• Implementing measures to reduce reliance on CSOs and install nature-based treatments at wastewater treatment works.

The bill also mandates the Secretary of State to produce annual reports on measures to assist water companies in meeting their duty. These reports must cover measures such as separating surface water and sewage collection systems, reducing sewage volume from domestic properties, reducing polluting content of sewage, reducing the impact of CSO discharges, and improving bathing water quality in inland waters.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify exact figures for government spending. However, it will likely lead to increased costs associated with enforcing the new duty on water companies, producing reports, and potentially providing financial support or incentives for water companies to upgrade their infrastructure and meet the new requirements. The actual financial impact will depend on the specific measures implemented and the level of government support provided.

Groups Affected

The bill will primarily affect:

• Water companies: They will face increased regulatory burdens and costs to comply with the new duty, including investment in infrastructure upgrades and improved monitoring and reporting.
• Environmental agencies (e.g., the Environment Agency): They will have increased responsibilities for monitoring compliance, conducting research, and enforcing the new regulations.
• The public: The bill aims to improve water quality in rivers and other inland waters, benefiting recreational users and the environment. There could also be indirect impacts through changes to water bills and building regulations.
• Developers: New building projects will need to comply with new standards regarding separation of surface water and sewage, and use of SUDS.

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