Provision of a Dispute Resolution Service on behalf of Ofwat - early Market Engagement

Section 39 of the Water Act 2014 creates a new power for the Secretary of State and the Welsh Ministers in relation to Ofwat’s adjudication (i.e. dispute resolution) functions, which will be incorporated into the Water Industry Act 1991 as section 207D.

Once commenced, section 207D of the Water Industry Act 1991 will allow the Secretary of State and the Welsh Ministers to make an order allowing any of Ofwat’s relevant dispute resolution functions to be performed by a specified party other than Ofwat.

Ofwat is considering how it may approach the procurement of a dispute resolution service provider acting on its behalf and is seeking information through the issue of this notice.

Ofwat is seeking to engage with relevant organisations to understand the current market for dispute resolution and to help scope and structure its requirements. Information provided may be used to inform Ofwat’s approach to any future procurement process.

Ofwat also welcomes expressions of interest from prospective providers who consider that they have the necessary capability and experience to be considered for the award of a contract for the effective provision of a dispute resolution service on behalf of Ofwat.

Ofwat is provisionally planning to hold an early engagement workshop on 19 August 2015 at its offices in Birmingham where interested parties can:

• Use the opportunity to inform Ofwat’s thinking; and
• Find out more.

To express an interest in engaging further with Ofwat, all organisations are asked to register by email as soon as possible but no later than 31 July 2015 at Caseworkengagement@ofwat.gsi.gov.uk