Committee publication · Correspondence · 2 September 2025
Correspondence from Ofwat regarding the Chief Executive's resignation, dated 6 August 2025
From: Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Inquiry: Reforming the water sector
Summary
Ofwat Chief Executive David Black announces his resignation effective end of August 2025, following the government's announcement that Ofwat will be integrated into a new unified water regulator. Black cites achievement of the 2024 price review backing £104 billion in investment and thanks the EFRA Committee for its scrutiny. Ofwat will continue operations and engage with government and Welsh authorities on transition arrangements.
Key findings
- David Black, Ofwat Chief Executive, is stepping down at the end of August 2025 following the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs announcement of a new integrated water regulator
- The 2024 price review backed an investment programme of £104 billion plus £50 billion in major new water resources investment
- Ofwat will work with UK government and other regulators to form the new body in England and engage with Welsh Government on options for Wales
- An interim appointment will be made to replace Black; Ofwat will continue to drive water company performance improvements until new arrangements are in place
Tone
ProceduralTopics
Key actors
David Black, Alistair Carmichael MP, Ofwat, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Committee
Notable line
“I am stepping down from my role as Chief Executive. I have been privileged to be able to lead Ofwat over the last four years …”
Key Quotes
“I am stepping down from my role as Chief Executive. I have been privileged to be able to lead Ofwat over the last four years …”
“The 2024 price review backed an investment programme of £104 billion, along with a further £50 billion investment in major new water resources, which will improve service, environmental outcomes and resilience in the years to come.”
“The scrutiny and recommendations which your Committee has offered me and my team have always been robust and measured …”
Source · parliament.uk record ↗