Water bills to remain flat, says Ofwat

The cost of water bills will remain broadly flat over the coming financial year, it has been revealed.

Across England and Wales, Ofwat said the average bill will stand at £339, which takes into account the 0.3% rise in inflation.

The regulator also revealed a £22 billion investment programme will be taken out over the next five years in order to maintain the quality and reliability of water supplies.

"This will deliver real benefits to consumers - from almost ten million people's water supplies being better protected from events such as flooding to dealing with the misery of sewer flooding for thousands of customers," commented Ofwat Chief Executive Officer Regina Finn.

She added that measures will be taken to make sure water suppliers are standing by their obligations and if they do not, the regulator will take the necessary action.

Ofwat recently said that it would strive to keep water bills constant over the next five years.

Posted by Ruth Bradshaw