UK water industry trade body
Ofwat has provisionally allowed five of 13 water companies in England and Wales to raise charges by about £3.4bn by 2030 to fund infrastructure upgrades, address PFAS and support housing and data-centre growth. Bills for several firms will rise in 2027–28 and 2029–30, with final confirmation due after consultation in December.
UK debate intensifies over data center growth as three-quarters of the country experiences drought. Greens call for stricter rules and local voice, while government argues pausing would risk investment and national data security.
The Consumer Council for Water has reported a record rise in complaints to both the watchdog and water companies as bills climb. England and Wales saw the highest year-on-year increase in two decades, with billing and affordability at the heart of public discontent. Regulators affirm ongoing upgrades and accountability across the sector.
Campaigners have urged the government to reform or reverse privatisation of the water sector amid protests, petitions and a surge of public concern following a series of sewage pollution incidents and a high-profile documentary.