MP calls for new water regulator with more powers

Pippa Heylings campaigned on water and environment issues before she was elected as an MP

A new MP says the current water regulator Ofwat should be replaced by a new organisation with more powers.

The Liberal Democrat MP for South Cambridgeshire, Pippa Heylings, says it would help ensure new developments in the area could be built sustainably.

She wants a regulator to have powers to stop bonuses being paid to bosses - and to encourage investment in infrastructure.

The Environment Agency have objected to a number of developments in her constituency because of pressure on the water supply.

'Water credits'

During her maiden speech to the House of Commons last month, Ms Heylings said she had worked around the world "to integrate climate and nature into growth plans".

Speaking to BBC Radio Cambridgeshire on Thursday, she re-iterated that she wanted to see less sewage dumped in rivers.

She said that she wanted a new regulator to "ensure they (the water companies) invest in infrastructure".

Water has been a big sticking point for new developments in the Cambridge area.

The Environment Agency has objected to a number of proposals on the grounds that there isn't enough water in the area.

A previous report, called The Case for Cambridge, said this could be resolved by building a new reservoir in the Fens.

It also proposed a system of water credits and ensuring new homes were water efficient.

The new Labour government says it wants to see growth in the area but wouldn't be drawn on the exact number of homes.