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Thu, 13 Aug 2026

Thu, 13 Aug 2026 Water bills set to rise for many after firms permitted extra funding

Ofwat has given provisional approval for 13 water companies to charge customers more to pay for investments.
- The decision applies to 13 water companies in England and Wales, with nearly a third of the extra funding earmarked for maintaining water services. - Some of the remaining funds will be used to address rising demand from housebuilding and data centres, as well as pollutants known as "forever chemicals". - Customers of five water companies - Severn Trent Water, Southern Water, Thames Water, Wessex Water, and South East Water - are facing additional bill rises over the next two years. - The increases will vary between firms, with Southern Water charging £43 extra next year, while South Eastern will only charge £1 more in 2029. - Many consumers are unhappy about the decision, citing previous interruptions to supply and pollution issues in rivers and lakes. - However, water companies argue that boosting spending is necessary to replace pipes, build treatment plants, and establish new reservoirs. - The regulator, Ofwat, says the extra spending will enable firms to support growth and better environmental outcomes. - A final decision on the increases is due in December after a period of public consultation.