Tue, 05 Aug 2025

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 Boss of water regulator Ofwat to resign

David Black's resignation comes after the government said the water regulator will be abolished to create a new watchdog.
David Black, Chief Executive of Ofwat, will step down at the end of the month after deciding to "pursue new opportunities". He took on the role in April 2022 and wishes his team "every success as they continue their important work". An interim chief executive will be appointed in due course. Ofwat's chair Iain Coucher praised Black for bringing about "transformational change" in the water sector, but this comes amid widespread criticism of water companies over leaking pipes and sewage spills. A recent report made 88 recommendations to reform the industry, including increasing bills sharply to pay for investment and making smart meters compulsory. The report also recommended scrapping Ofwat and creating a new watchdog as part of an industry overhaul to address failings. This decision comes after the government announced plans to abolish Ofwat in response to the report's findings.
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