Evolving Water Institutions in England and Wales: An Assessment of Two Decades of Experience

This paper traces the evolution of water institutions in England and Wales since the 1963 Water Resources Act, and the development of a much broader approach to water management than exists in most parts of the world. Interestingly, the perspective on water services has gradually altered from one based on local "welfare state" ideals of collective provision and finance to one in which water is viewed more as an economic good to be supplied by business and market oriented organizations. The government has declared its plans to "privatize" the water industry and, while this step is yet to be taken, there appears to be a growing acceptance of the idea that economic rules should guide allocation, charges and prices. The adequacy of water institutions in England and Wales is assessed using nine evaluative themes which relate directly to the various objectives of water management.