Severn Trent CEO Defends High Pay Amid Sewage Concerns

Severn Trent CEO Liv Garfield has defended her multi-million pound pay package despite a significant rise in sewage spills.

Garfield earned £3.2 million in 2022 and nearly £13 million over the past four years.

Severn Trent was responsible for over 60,000 sewage spills last year, an issue that has brought the water industry into intense scrutiny.

Despite this, Garfield claims the company has made significant progress in improving river quality.

The industry faces pressure to enhance infrastructure to reduce leaks and spills, with Thames Water proposing a 44% bill increase to finance improvements.

Industry regulator Ofwat will soon decide on bill changes for 2025-2030.

Thames Water, burdened with debt, faces potential nationalization if it cannot secure additional funding.

Garfield assured Severn Trent's financial stability and plans significant investment in storm overflow solutions.