Prime Minister Andy Burnham is planning to create nine regional bodies, led by mayors, that could bring water companies under public control. Under these proposals, regional leaders would sit on boards alongside public health officials, customers, and environmental campaigners.
The boards are understood to be tasked with setting company objectives and collecting customer feedback through consultation mechanisms. These mechanisms are modelled on those used by Transport for London, according to The Daily Telegraph.
The new framework would also incorporate recommendations from a review of the water industry by former Bank of England deputy governor Sir Jon Cunliffe. This plan is part of Burnham's broader strategy for a significant transfer of power from Westminster.
A government spokesman stated: “Our water industry has not been working for people for far too long. We’re bringing in tougher regulation, stronger enforcement and greater accountability, so water companies deliver for customers and the environment.”