Severn Trent Water delivers drinking water and wastewater services across the Midlands and surrounding regions; it is among the major regulated utility companies facing rising consumer bills as Ofwat approves extra investment.
Ofwat has provisionally allowed 13 water companies to raise customer bills by £3.4bn by 2030 to fund infrastructure upgrades, tackle PFAS and support housing and data-centre growth. Five firms, including Thames Water, will begin bill increases in 2027–28, with final decisions due in December after a public consultation.
On the hottest day of the year, crews tackle extensive grass fires near Stourbridge and Stratford-upon-Avon. Homes are evacuated; a major incident is declared in Warwickshire. Rescue centres open and officials urge residents to stay indoors and follow safety advice.