by WiseOnWater podcast
This podcast delves into the critical issues shaping the future of water in the UK. Join host Natasha Wiseman as she chats with industry experts, policymakers, and researchers about the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the UK water sector. Every month, we'll be bringing together a diverse range of voices to spark insightful conversations and actionable solutions.
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Publishing Since
9/6/2024
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June 15, 2026
<p>In this episode, Natasha Wiseman is joined by <strong>Lawrence Gosden, CEO of Southern Water</strong>, to discuss the monumental challenges and technological advancements defining the UK water sector. </p><p>Lawrence outlines the company's strategy for tackling the "triple threat" of storm overflows, nutrient management, and water scarcity. The conversation explores the engineering behind pioneering water recycling projects, the shift toward sustainable urban drainage, and the vital importance of rebuilding trust with customers through transparency and operational excellence. </p><p><strong>Top takeaways </strong></p><ul><li><p>The sector is shifting from static infrastructure to adaptive strategies. Southern Water is prioritising rainwater management through nature-based solutions and smart technology to mitigate the impact of intense weather events. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Facing unprecedented water scarcity, Southern Water is implementing advanced water reuse projects (such as those at Sandown and Havant). These projects treat wastewater to exceptionally high standards, ensuring resilience against drought while maintaining environmental health. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>The company is utilising AI and an extensive network of sensors to monitor sewer networks in real-time, allowing for proactive intervention before pollution incidents occur. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Recognising the cost-of-living crisis, Southern Water has significantly expanded its support schemes, with nearly 200,000 customers currently receiving up to 45% (and sometimes up to 90%) off their bills. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Lawrence emphasises that the goal is the full recovery of customer trust. He advocates for a more unified regulatory approach that balances environmental progress with reasonable, affordable customer bills. </p></li></ul><p></p>
May 11, 2026
<p>By 2055, England alone faces a staggering 5 billion litres a day shortfall in public water supplies. </p><p>In this episode, Natasha Wiseman dives into the frontline of this environmental challenge. From the driest regions of the country to the strategic planning rooms of water utilities, we explore how the UK is preparing for a future where water can no longer be taken for granted. </p><p><strong>Guest 1:</strong> Daniel Johns. Managing Director, Water Resources East (WRE). Daniel is a former key figure at Anglian Water and a senior civil servant at DEFRA, as well as the former lead for the UK Climate Change Risk Assessment. Daniel discusses the evolution of WRE into a multi-sector “system planner,” balancing the needs of agriculture, energy, and the environment in the UK’s most water-stressed region. </p><p><strong>Guest 2: Victoria Thatcher.</strong> Head of Water Strategy and Environment, South Staffs Water and Cambridge Water, with over 12 years of experience in environmental protection and strategy, with a background in marine biology. Victoria provides the on-the-ground utility perspective, explaining how South Staffs and Cambridge Water are diversifying their sources. </p><p><strong>Key takeaways: </strong></p><ul><li><p>The ‘rainy UK’ myth: Why high rainfall doesn't equal water security, and how growth hubs like Cambridge and Milton Keynes are feeling the pinch. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>How agriculture and industry are being integrated into water planning, including the potential for treated effluent reuse for data centres and irrigation. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>The role of smart metering and using machine learning for dynamic catchment management. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>The push for mandatory water efficiency labelling and why water scarcity must be baked into local planning and building regulations. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Why massive infrastructure projects like reservoirs take decades, and how demand management (eg, leakage reduction and behaviour change campaigns) can be an effective short-term defence. </p></li></ul><p>Sponsored by Xylem UK and Ireland. Providing innovative water technology solutions to help communities and utilities solve the world's greatest water challenges. </p><p></p>
April 7, 2026
<p>In this episode of the WiseOnWater podcast, host Natasha Wiseman explores the real-world challenges and opportunities in <strong>asset management and capital delivery </strong>during a transformational period for the UK water sector. </p><p>Dive into the complexities of strategic asset management, from the "unsexy" but vital maintenance of Victorian pipes to the rollout of massive strategic resource options like new reservoirs and desalination. This episode examines how digital innovation, smart data, and long-term planning horizons are reshaping how utilities safeguard environmental stewardship and customer service in an era of intense cost and climate pressures. </p><p><strong>Guest 1</strong>: Dr Sian Thomas. Director of Strategic Asset Management at Anglian Water. With a Doctorate in Business Administration, Sian’s expertise lies in team collaboration within mega-projects. She leads the team responsible for Anglian’s 25-year plans, integrating future climate projections with today’s high-stakes investment decisions. </p><p><strong>Guest 2</strong>: Steve Plumb. Asset Strategy and Capital Delivery Director at Affinity Water, the UK’s largest water-only company. Steve oversees a diverse team of engineers and scientists. His remit spans asset management, water quality, and environmental restoration, alongside the delivery of critical strategic resource options designed to secure water supplies for future generations. </p><p><strong>Key takeaways </strong></p><ul><li><p>The scale of AMP8: Navigating the biggest capital programme in a generation and its implications for UK water. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Balancing "asset health": The challenge of funding essential maintenance for ageing assets alongside high-profile new infrastructure. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Digital-first strategies: How Anglian Water is leveraging smart meters and AI "accelerators" to move from reactive to proactive management. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Future-proofing supply: Insights into the development of strategic pipelines, new reservoirs in the Fens and Lincolnshire, and the emergence of desalination in the UK. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Regulatory evolution: The potential impact of the Water Reform White Paper and the shift toward integrated, long-term planning horizons (5, 10, and 25 years). </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>The "Value of Water": Addressing the relationship between customer affordability, infrastructure investment, and the true cost of environmental protection. </p></li></ul><ul><li><p>Resilience defined: What it means for infrastructure to truly "stand up" to the increasing frequency of extreme weather events. </p></li></ul><p>Sponsored by Xylem UK and Ireland. Providing innovative water technology solutions to help communities and utilities solve the world's greatest water challenges. </p><p></p>
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This podcast delves into the critical issues shaping the future of water in the UK.
Join host Natasha Wiseman as she chats with industry experts, policymakers, and researchers about the latest trends, challenges, and innovations in the UK water sector.
Every month, we'll be bringing together a diverse range of voices to spark insightful conversations and actionable solutions.
This podcast updates bi-weekly.
This podcast is available on 4 platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more. You can also use the RSS feed directly.
Information about guest appearances is not available.
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