Scientist examing toxic water.

The efforts made by water companies to safeguard water supplies from pollution will come under the spotlight when the Consumer Council for Water (CCWater) meets in Newcastle on Tuesday (June 5).

 The Water Watchdog’s board meeting in public at The Biscuit Factory, Newcastle, will give members of the public the opportunity to hear how water companies plan to tackle the impact of pollution and protect the region’s water supplies, now and for generations to come.

 With current research suggesting 40% of rivers in England and Wales are polluted, representatives from the region’s water companies will gather to discuss how the North’s industrial past continues to have an impact upon the rivers and how companies are working to collectively address the impact of pollution and ensure continued improvements to water quality.

Representatives from Northumbrian Water, Yorkshire Water and United Utilities will be in attendance to present individual case studies which demonstrate the achievements they have made to reduce pollution across the North, focusing on the story of three rivers; the Tyne, Mersey and Aire.

Robert Light, Chair of CCWater’s Northern Committee, said: “Managing the industrial impact on our rivers and the wider environment continues to present a significant challenge. We are looking forward to finding out more about the long-term plans by water companies to safeguard rivers and improve water quality for future generations.”

“As the population continues to grow rapidly, this too will undoubtedly present further challenges in the future, putting increased pressure on our resources, therefore it is vital that companies continue to work together to mitigate such risks.”

Members of the public who wish to attend will have the opportunity to put forward their own questions to the companies at the start of the meeting.

If you are interested in attending the meeting, or if you have any questions, please email [email protected]

For more information or to arrange an interview please call the team on 0121 345 1025