Millions of United Utilities customers in north-west England will see their water bills rise by an average of 32% over the next five years. The increase, approved by regulator Ofwat, aims to fund a major investment in water infrastructure, including cleaning up polluted rivers.
More than seven million United Utilities customers across north-west England will face a significant increase in their water bills starting in April. This hike, part of a business plan approved by regulator Ofwat , aims to raise bills by an average of 32% over the next five years. The funds generated will be used to invest in infrastructure, focusing on cleaning up polluted rivers.
As families prepare for the added financial burden, here's a detailed look at the key aspects of this price increase. The impact will be felt by residents in Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Lancashire, Cumbria, most of Cheshire and parts of Derbyshire, areas served by United Utilities' water network. Following the initial increase, the company plans to raise bills by an average of £31 annually until 2030, resulting in a 32% increase over five years. This means the average annual bill will reach £585 by 2030, compared to the current figure of £442 for 2024-25. John Vinson from the Consumer Council for Water noted that these figures are subject to change before April as they 'do not include inflation.' The reason behind this increase is to allow United Utilities to raise £12.7 billion through bills from households and its 200,000 business customers over a five-year period. This funding will support what has been described as 'the largest investment' in water infrastructure since water companies were privatised in 1989. Under this plan, £2.5 billion will be allocated to reducing the duration of raw sewage discharges into rivers and waterways in the region by 30%. Other improvements mandated by Ofwat's targets include reducing the number of leaks, installing more smart meters, and implementing measures to limit water main bursts. Mr. Vinson emphasized that people expect 'real progress and real results,' stressing the importance of water companies 'delivering on their promises.' Citizens Advice Manchester's representative James Walker highlighted the limited consumer choice in water providers, stating, 'You can't change water company, you're tied in based on where you live.' He further advised on water-saving practices, such as limiting shower duration to four minutes and avoiding overfilling kettles. On its website, United Utilities recommends getting a water meter, checking for household leaks, and adopting water-saving measures for garden chores as ways to reduce water consumption. Every water company is required to offer support schemes for struggling customers called social tariffs, which help lower bills. United Utilities plans to increase its social tariff provision from 5% to 15% over the next five years, as announced by Ofwat. These schemes are available to individuals on low incomes or receiving means-tested benefits, with additional programs to assist with bill payment affordability
WATER BILL INCREASE INVESTMENT INFRASTRUCTURE POLLUTION UNITED UTILITIES OFWAT SOCIAL TARIFFS
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