Eight of England’s nine water companies still failing on environment, report finds
News Source
•Thu, 29 Oct 2026 16:39:48 GMT
📰 What Happened
A new report rates eight of England's nine water companies as “poor” or “requiring improvement”. Four regulators published the findings together for the first time.
There were 74 serious pollution incidents, just one fewer than the year before, despite billions in investment. England had 2,666 pollution incidents in 2025, a 40% rise since 2016. Thames Water had the most.
Environment secretary Angela Eagle summoned industry bosses to Whitehall. She said “people are sick of excuses” and promised root-and-branch reform.
🔍 The Backstory
The companies scored 16 out of a possible 36 stars, down from 19 and the lowest since the ratings began. Rules introduced last year block bonuses for bosses at firms with a one-star rating.
The UK is one of only two countries where water is fully privatised, along with Chile. Campaigners want Thames Water put into special administration and a review of public ownership.
🎯 Why It Matters
Sewage in rivers and seas affects swimmers, wildlife and water bills. The report shows that paying more has not fixed the problem yet.
A new report rates eight of England's nine water companies as “poor” or “requiring improvement”. Four regulators published the findings together for the first time.
There were 74 serious pollution incidents, just one fewer than the year before, despite billions in investment. England had 2,666 pollution incidents in 2025, a 40% rise since 2016. Thames Water had the most.
Environment secretary Angela Eagle summoned industry bosses to Whitehall. She said “people are sick of excuses” and promised root-and-branch reform.
The companies scored 16 out of a possible 36 stars, down from 19 and the lowest since the ratings began. Rules introduced last year block bonuses for bosses at firms with a one-star rating.
The UK is one of only two countries where water is fully privatised, along with Chile. Campaigners want Thames Water put into special administration and a review of public ownership.
Sewage in rivers and seas affects swimmers, wildlife and water bills. The report shows that paying more has not fixed the problem yet.