A new once-in-a-generation plan to overhaul the water system and protect households from disruption has been unveiled today (Tuesday 20 January) by the Government. 

The Water White Paper sets out clear powers for the new regulator, delivering tougher oversight and stronger accountability for water companies. 

The new regulator will introduce an 'MOT' approach for water company infrastructure, requiring health checks on pipes, pumps and more. This forward-looking approach means no more waiting to act, spotting problems before they happen and preventing water shortages. 

A Government spokesperson said: "These reforms put prevention first, requiring companies and bosses to plan for the long-term. 

Congleton MP Sarah Russell invited United Utilities for a tour of the constituency last year. (Credit: Sarah Russell)

"Where companies fall short, a new Performance Improvement Regime will give the regulator the power to act fast and fix failures so that underperforming water companies recover faster, protecting customers and the environment and giving stability to investors.

"The proposed bill sets out the bold reforms our communities have been calling for. For too long, water companies have not been held accountable for crumbling infrastructure and pollution has blighted our local rivers and canals."

Sarah Russell MP, whose Congleton constituency includes Alsager and Sandbach, has welcomed the move.

She said: "I met with United Utilities and took them to the worst spots in Alsager, Congleton, Holmes Chapel and Sandbach and showed them various places where sewage dumps have been a particular problem in recent years.

"They assured me that they are investing several billion pounds into their infrastructure to reduce the impact on our community.

"I also met with the Minister for Water before Christmas to discuss water bills and I am very pleased to see the proposed action on these.

"I will continue to work with them and in parliament to ensure that our area gets its fair share of that support."