David Black, Ofwat chief executive, told the BBC the investment will “deliver significant reduction in sewage spills, further reductions in leakage, and drive up service for customers”.
A total of £104bn is to be spent on upgrades for the sector, which Ofwat said would deliver “cleaner rivers and seas and secure long-term drinking water supplies for customers”.
Bill hikes varies by region. Southern Water customers will be hit by the biggest increase, with bills going up 53% – to £642 on average – by 2030. Wessex and Northumbrian Water bills will rise by the smallest amount – 21%.
The announcement of bills rising for Southern Water households comes as supplies to thousands of homes are currently disrupted, with more than 58,000 properties impacted.
Thames Water, which is struggling under a huge debt pile, will be able to charge customers 35% more, with annual bills going up to £588.
