The Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) has initiated a public consultation regarding its draft Corporate Plan for the period 2027-33. This consultation aims to gather insights from customers, businesses, community groups, and stakeholders to ensure that the interests of current and future customers are adequately protected during a time of significant investment in Scotland’s water and wastewater services.

Significant Investment in Water Services

As Scotland’s independent economic regulator for the water industry, WICS is preparing for a crucial phase that will involve substantial financial commitments to enhance water services. The draft Corporate Plan outlines how WICS intends to maintain fair charges, ensure that investments yield value, and hold Scottish Water accountable for its performance and service delivery.

David Satti, Chief Executive of WICS, emphasised the importance of this period, stating, “The next six years will be a significant period for Scotland’s water sector, with important decisions to be made about investment, performance and the services customers receive.” He further noted that the draft plan is designed to safeguard the interests of both current and future customers, highlighting the necessity of public input to ensure the final plan aligns with community priorities.

Sponsors

Engagement with Stakeholders

The consultation process is open to a wide range of participants, including customers, businesses, community organisations, and other stakeholders with an interest in Scotland’s water sector. WICS is keen to hear diverse perspectives that will inform the final Corporate Plan, which will guide its regulatory approach over the next six years.

The feedback collected during this consultation will play a pivotal role in shaping the objectives and strategies outlined in the final plan. WICS aims to ensure that its regulatory framework not only meets current needs but is also adaptable to future challenges, such as climate resilience and evolving customer expectations.

Focus Areas of the Draft Corporate Plan

The draft Corporate Plan for 2027-33 identifies several key focus areas for WICS. These include:

• Investment Scrutiny: WICS will continue to closely examine Scottish Water’s investment plans to ensure that they are justified and beneficial for customers.
• Performance Accountability: The regulator will hold Scottish Water accountable for its service delivery, ensuring that customers receive high-quality water and wastewater services.
• Cost Management: WICS is committed to ensuring that customers do not pay more than necessary for their water services, striving for the lowest reasonable overall costs.
• Future-Proofing Services: The plan will address the need for infrastructure and services that can meet future demands and challenges, including those posed by climate change.

Importance of Customer Feedback

WICS recognises that customer feedback is vital in shaping a regulatory framework that truly reflects the needs and priorities of the community. The consultation is an opportunity for stakeholders to voice their opinions and contribute to the development of a robust plan that will guide Scotland’s water services for the next six years.

The consultation is set to close at 5pm on 13 October 2026, and WICS encourages all interested parties to participate. The insights gained will not only inform the final Corporate Plan but will also help ensure that Scotland’s water sector continues to deliver value and high-quality services to its customers.

Conclusion

As Scotland embarks on a significant investment journey in its water sector, the role of WICS as an independent regulator becomes increasingly crucial. Through this public consultation, WICS aims to foster a collaborative approach that prioritises customer interests and ensures that the water services provided are both effective and sustainable. Stakeholders are urged to engage in this process to help shape the future of Scotland’s water services.