Local MP welcomes crackdown on water companies delivering record funding to restore waterways

Melanie Onn, Member of Parliament for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes, has welcomed new government action to hold water companies to account, as a record £8.5 million secured through enforcement action is reinvested into restoring rivers, habitats and local environments.

The funding, which is the highest annual total on record, will go directly towards projects that repair damage caused by pollution, improve water quality, and support wildlife across the country.

This marks a significant increase on previous years, up from £5.8 million last year and under £2 million in 2023/24, as the government steps up enforcement action against water companies that break environmental rules.

The Environment Agency will ensure the funding is directed to local charities and environmental groups, supporting projects such as habitat restoration, river recovery and improvements for threatened species including water voles and salmon.

The announcement comes as part of a wider crackdown on water companies, including record inspections, stronger enforcement powers and new legislation to improve accountability and performance across the sector.

Melanie Onn, MP for Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes said:

“People across Great Grimsby and Cleethorpes are rightly furious when they see pollution in our waterways while water companies get away with it. For too long, the system hasn’t held them properly to account.

“This is a significant step forward – making sure that when companies break the rules, they pay to put things right, with money going directly into restoring our rivers and habitats.

“I’ve been clear that water companies must do better, and it’s right that the government is now backing tougher enforcement with real action.

“This is about Labour values in action – protecting our environment, standing up for local communities, and making sure those who cause damage are the ones who pay to fix it.”

Water Minister, Emma Hardy said:

“Water companies must be held to account when they break the law.

This enforcement action will see millions go directly into projects that clean up our rivers, restore habitats and benefit local communities, delivering immediate benefits without lengthy court cases.”

The £8.5 million has been secured through Enforcement Undertakings – legally binding agreements requiring companies that breach environmental rules to fund environmental improvements and prevent future offences.

The funding will support a wide range of projects across the country, helping to restore waterways, rebuild habitats and improve water quality for communities and wildlife alike.