The Cabinet has decided to establish a South East Water Stakeholder Group to address ongoing issues with the water company at a senior level.

URL: https://democracy.canterbury.gov.uk/ieDecisionDetails.aspx?ID=1737

Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: No

Purpose:

Content: Councillor Alan Baldock, Cabinet Member for Strategy and Finance, introduced the report that asks Cabinet to consider whether Canterbury City Council should lead or co-lead the establishment of a South East Water Stakeholder Group. It draws on discussions with Wealden District Council, which coordinates the Southern Water Stakeholder Group, and on recent engagement with South East Water.    There were three options for Cabinet to consider within the report:  1. To establish a South East Water Stakeholder Group comprising of         nominated representatives from all local authorities within the South East Water regional areas.   2. To adapt our response in light of Kent County Council involvement with their proposal to scrutinise South East Water.   3. To do nothing    The Cabinet discussed the report, and the following points were made:    The Council had limited formal powers over water companies and regulators but could play an important role in coordinating local authorities, stakeholders and lobbying efforts to encourage improvements in service delivery and infrastructure investment.  Discussions had taken place with neighbouring authorities to determine levels of interest and participation before detailed arrangements are established.  A collaborative approach would strengthen the Council’s voice and ability to advocate for residents.  Reference was made to proposals being developed at county level to increase public scrutiny of water companies. Cabinet agreed it was appropriate to continue progressing the Council’s own arrangements while awaiting further details.  Members agreed that the primary focus of the proposed group should be in relation to water supply resilience, infrastructure delivery, customer service and operational performance due to ongoing concerns about recurring disruptions, the adequacy of infrastructure maintenance, and the impact on residents affected by service failures.  The geographical scope of the group was discussed with the benefits of engaging all local authorities served by South East Water.  Future arrangements would remain flexible enough to adapt to changes arising from Local Government Reorganisation.  Consideration would be given to the resourcing of the proposed work and the extent to which participating authorities may contribute to administration and governance arrangements.  Members supported the establishment of a collaborative stakeholder group focused on South East Water, involving local authorities and other relevant organisations, and agreed that officers should engage with affected councils to develop the proposal and strengthen collective representation of local concerns.  A further update to Cabinet would be provided in three months.    It was then proposed, seconded and when put to a recorded vote RESOLVED:    To establish a South East Water Stakeholder Group comprising of nominated representatives from all local authorities within the South East Water regional areas.    Record of the voting:   For (4): Councillors Baldock, Chris Cornell, Dawkins, Nolan  Against (0)  Abstained (0)     Reason for the decision: To address ongoing issues with South East Water at a senior level.     

Date of Decision: June 30, 2026