The Wildlife Trusts has welcomed the news that eight new regional water councils will be set up in England to give public and local leaders a direct say in how water companies deliver for their area.

The new regional water councils will bring local leaders, customers and businesses together to set the priorities for their region, helping shape billions of pounds of investment in water and flood infrastructure.

Decisions about the water system are currently taken nationally, despite communities facing very different challenges. The new councils will change that, giving communities and local leaders a stronger voice over priorities including sewage and water quality, flooding, drought and future water supplies. Mayors will also receive new powers through the strengthened Water Bill to hold water companies to account for their performance.