Expressing concerns about the prospect of NRW taking control, Andrew RT Davies said: “Of the top 20 polluted most polluted rivers in England, five are in Wales – this happened on Senedd ministers’ watch.
“Senedd ministers must take responsibility for failings in the water industry in Wales – NRW should not be granted more powers, instead it should be closed and replaced.”
NRW declined to respond to Mr Davies.
Sir David Henshaw, Chair of NRW, said: “We support the strategic direction outlined for the industry, including a Wales-specific approach to economic regulation, and further review of associated legislation. It is essential that any such review upholds and strengthens existing environmental standards.
“In recent years, we’ve worked hard to address declining performance amongst water companies, using the full range of enforcement tools available to us. But the pollution incident and spill reports we published last week highlight the urgent need for stronger and more flexible regulation and enforcement needed to drive transformative change.”
Plaid Cymru accused the Welsh government of having the ability “to devolve full control over our water” and having refused to use it.
“Plaid Cymru will devolve these powers to help drive down bills; improve consumer choice and accountability in the water market, and reduce pollution and improve water quality”, the party’s Delyth Jewell said.