Ofwat consults on £280,000 Hafren Dyfrdwy redress package

Ofwat is consulting on a proposed £280,000 enforcement package for Hafren Dyfrdwy after finding failures in the management of its wastewater treatment works and sewer network. The regulator’s 16 October announcement says the company acknowledged the breaches and proposed measures to address them. Acceptance of the package remains subject to consultation and a final Ofwat decision.

What the proposed package would fund

The plans include two storm-water balancing tanks at Llansantffraid Sewage Pumping Station to reduce spills. They also include work with Llanfyllin Dolydd Building Preservation Trust to support a wetland habitat at Llanfyllin Workhouse. Delivery is expected by 2030. Ofwat says the cost would fall on the company and its shareholders, rather than being recovered through higher customer bills. That statement concerns this package; it does not fix future bills generally.

Redress rather than a final fine

Ofwat proposes accepting the undertakings instead of a financial penalty. The regulator says the alternative penalty would have been £255,000, with that money going to the Treasury. The proposed redress would instead support improvements in the water sector. The announcement says Hafren Dyfrdwy now has the required processes in place but must remedy outstanding issues and ensure future compliance. It does not say all physical improvements have been completed. The 21-day consultation closes at 5pm on 6 November. Ofwat says it will publish its final decision afterwards.