Environment Agency Increases Water Enforcement Workforce and Budget

The UK Environment Agency has announced the assembly of its largest-ever water enforcement team, comprising investigators, enforcement officers, and lawyers, to combat water pollution. The workforce has grown from 41 roles in 2023 to 195 by March 2026, with further increases planned. This expansion is supported by a record £153 million budget for the current financial year, funded in part by a strengthened "polluter pays" principle where water companies cover enforcement costs. The agency has already completed over 8,000 inspections for the 2025/26 financial year, resulting in 4,700 improvement actions for water companies and securing over £6.9 million in enforcement undertakings.

This enhanced enforcement capability is intended to deter illegal activity and drive improvements in water company environmental performance, which has declined in recent years. The agency will employ a range of actions, including formal notices, civil penalties, and prosecutions, to hold water companies accountable. Water companies are expected to address breaches of environmental law, including repairing sewage works and upgrading infrastructure, to avoid penalties. The Water (Special Measures) Act 2025 provides strengthened powers for the agency.