Councillor Paul Arnott, Deputy Leader of Devon County Council and Cabinet Member for Local Government Reorganisation and Water Quality, has responded to South West Water’s guilty plea yesterday to supplying water unfit for human consumption after a parasitic outbreak.
Councillor Arnott said:
“The fact that South West Water has pleaded guilty to supplying water unfit for human consumption is extremely serious.
“That failure of responsibility has damaged public trust and shows why stronger reform of our water system is urgently needed.
“Safe, reliable water is a priority for this council. Devon County Council will be unveiling a new pan‑Devon water report this year, and we are planning a major water summit in the autumn to bring together all stakeholders and look for innovative solutions.
“We need to explore bold ideas, such as the potential for a Devon Water Authority that would put the needs of our communities first.”