HBF has sent a response to the consultation with a covering letter.
The changes contained in the Water Act 2003 are welcomed by the industry and go a long way in promoting competition and clarifying other issues where consistency is needed.
The HBF sees it as most important that the guidance published by OFWAT, not only in this area but also in relation to the other changes the Water Act 2003 imposes, is concise and leaves no loop holes that water companies can exploit, as has happened in the past.
Without wishing to be too negative, the HBF has some grave concerns over the details relating to network reinforcement.
We also feel that there has been a lack of consistency in only allowing asset payments to be made in relation to water mains and not sewers. However, we hope this imbalance can be addressed by OFWAT and the government in the future.
HBF would also welcome a continued involvement by OFWAT in compiling a tripartite model legal agreement for self-lay to help to move competition forward.
