The Welsh Liberal Democrats have renewed calls for urgent action to protect Wales’ rivers, backing plans for a Clean Water Bill amid warnings that water quality has reached a critical point.

The proposed legislation, championed by Save the River Usk (STRU) and a coalition of environmental groups, sets out a framework for safeguarding waterways. It would establish a legal principle that no discharge may harm a water body, introduce binding targets for water quality and biodiversity, and create an independent regulator with powers to hold polluters to account.

The campaign comes amid growing public concern over sewage spills and frustration that water companies in England and Wales, which operate under a fully privatised model, are not effectively held to account.

Welsh Liberal Democrat Leader and Mid and West Wales MS Jane Dodds said: “Communities across Wales have had enough of excuses. People want a clean river when they walk the dog, when their children play near the water and when local businesses depend on the natural environment to thrive. A Clean Water Bill is the chance to finally set clear rules, enforce them properly and stop the decline before it becomes irreversible.

"This is a moment for the Welsh Government to show real ambition. Campaigners have done the heavy lifting by setting out a strong and credible proposal. Ministers should listen, adopt the principles and bring forward legislation that puts the health of our rivers above the convenience of polluters.

“The call for action in Wales sits alongside wider UK reforms. Earlier this year, the UK Government passed the Water (Special Measures) Act 2025, which introduced tougher sanctions for failing water companies, including bonus bans, automatic fines, criminal charges for obstructing investigations and mandatory real time sewage reporting. The Welsh Liberal Democrats say that these measures are a good starting point, but are not a substitute for the stronger, Wales specific protections outlined by STRU and its partners.”