Water Bills Set for Biggest Hike in 20 Years
Prepare your wallets! Water bills are set to jump by a hefty 7.5% this April — the biggest rise in nearly two decades. The average household will see their annual bill soar by around £31.
Average Bills Hit £448, Some Areas Over £500
Water UK reveals that the typical water and sewerage bill in England and Wales will climb from £417 last year to £448. But it gets worse for some: households in certain regions will face eye-watering charges topping £500 per year.
Struggling Customers Face Tougher Times
Consumer groups warn this surge could push one in five already struggling customers over the edge. Emma Clancy, CEO of the Consumer Council for Water (CCW), said:
“Water is essential for all of us so no-one should be worried about being able to afford their bill. These increases will bring more uncertainty to struggling households at a time when they can’t be certain they will get the help they need.”
She added, “Low-income households need immediate relief and the long-term security of knowing their water bill will be affordable. It’s not fair that struggling households face a postcode lottery when it comes to getting help with their bill – that’s why we urgently need a new water affordability scheme that provides consistent support based on people’s needs.”
Water Firms Defend Rise, Offer £200m Support
Water UK insists that in real terms, bills are still cheaper than a decade ago, despite the hike reflecting soaring energy costs. Water firms use around 2% of the UK’s electricity.
Stuart Colville, Water UK’s director of policy, said:
“With an average increase of around 60p a week, most customers will again see a below-inflation increase in their water bill. However, we know that any increase is unwelcome, particularly at the moment.”
To ease the burden, water companies are launching an extra £200 million in support. Colville urged anyone struggling to reach out to their provider or visit supportontap.org for advice. “Water companies will never cut anyone off or force them onto prepayment meters,” he reassured.
The new funds will back record investment plans, including new reservoirs and projects to stop sewage flooding rivers. Over £70 billion is set to be spent in the coming years to improve water services across the nation.
