“The Office for Environmental Protection (OEP) was clear that for decades we have done far too much writing of plans and far too little delivery, resulting in a failure to move the needle on the dial on the health of our waterways. They called on the Government to keep the Water Framework Directive (WFD) but improve its implementation through stronger governance, funding and ambition. Their report highlighted the need for greater collaboration between a wide range of partners through empowered Catchment Partnerships.

“In their response published today, we are glad to see that the Government recognises the need for increased action and investment and promises renewed focus on catchment level activity. The Government’s intention to work collaboratively with the OEP is an important step in tackling the complex issues facing our water environment. We must work together and take a holistic approach to address challenges as wide-ranging as chemical pollution, monitoring and reporting, and governance frameworks. We will continue to urge the Government not to shift the goal posts by overhauling the WFD, as this will only obstruct efforts to transform our waterways.

“We urgently need to see improvements to the health of our rivers. This will require substantial and fundamental changes in the way that we manage land and water, and how a wide range of organisations operate and collaborate to realise a truly holistic approach. The Rivers Trust movement is primed and ready to support this process, but we need the Government to think big and act on the advice of its experts.”

Mark Lloyd, Chief Executive Officer