Water bills to rise above inflation in April

Water bills in the UK are set to increase above the inflation rate in April, provoking critique from advocacy groups.

The average water and sewerage bill in England and Wales will rise by 6%, an addition of £27, reaching £473, according to Water UK. Scottish rates will jump by 8.8%, or £36.

This follows controversy over wastewater being released into water bodies.

Water UK's CEO, David Henderson, announced record investments by water companies, with more than £14.4 billion allocated for the next year to enhance water infrastructure and minimize sewage in waterways.

This will mark the biggest annual investment to date. However, bill amounts will vary by region and individual water use. Expected increases range from £422 in Northumbria to £548 in Wessex.

Some companies have been restricted by the regulator Ofwat from imposing significant hikes due to failing to meet performance targets. Ofwat has also mandated that water companies support customers struggling to pay their bills.

Over a million households receive discounts on their bills, with significant numbers in Scotland also receiving support. Calls are being made for more companies to fund these social tariffs using profits.

CCW's Mike Keil highlighted the burden these increases will place on low-income families and urged companies to assist those facing hardship.

In a separate issue, Ofwat is reviewing a proposal for water bills to potentially rise by £156 annually by 2030 to finance infrastructure upgrades and address sewage issues, doubling investment to £96 billion.

Public displeasure is mounting due to ongoing environmental concerns and rising living costs. Additionally, there is a consultation process underway in Northern Ireland regarding water charges.