British Water and The Water Industry Forum (WIF) have said the case for merging the two organisations is “compelling”.
The two bodies have proposed a structure that would see WIF operate as a subsidiary of British Water, with its own management board and remaining a limited company. It would be bound by a code of conduct, and its directors by a code of ethics to protect WIF’s independence.
The proposal is the result of talks over the last year as to whether a combined organisation would be better placed to foster collaboration and innovation to meet the challenges facing the water sector.
They are now asking their respective members for their views by 21 June with the aim of completing the merger this year.
The new-look British Water would consist of four forums, with the potential to add more in the future to reflect the direction of travel for the industry.
The merger would bring together British Water’s 200+ member companies and the c600 partners of WIF.
British Water chief executive Lila Thompson said: “By joining forces, we believe we can deliver enhanced value for our members and respond most effectively and efficiently to the unique challenges facing the UK water sector, government and wider society – and the many opportunities these challenges present.”
British Water, which was founded in 1938, represents the UK water sector supply chain, with the principal aims of raising the sector’s profile and promoting best practice. It also represents the interests of its members on regulations and legislation.
The Water Industry Forum was launched in 2012 with the purpose of facilitating collaboration around key challenges for the sector.