Water Bills in England and Wales to Rise by Record 26% from April

Millions of households will face steep increases as companies fund infrastructure upgrades and tackle pollution issues.

The average annual water bill will increase by £123, rising from £480 to £603, marking the largest hike since the industry's privatisation 36 years ago.
Southern Water customers will experience the highest increase of 47%, bringing their average bill to £703, while other regions face rises ranging from 29% to 32%.
The increases are attributed to funding a £104 billion investment plan through 2030 aimed at improving infrastructure, reducing pollution, and building reservoirs.
Critics highlight decades of underinvestment, rising shareholder dividends, and mounting customer debt, with 2.5 million households already struggling to pay bills.
Water companies and the regulator Ofwat have pledged financial support for over three million households, though concerns remain over the affordability of these hikes.