Our investment plan will enhance resilience, secure water supplies for the future, and ensure a sustainable future. Our plan includes exciting major projects, including investing in the construction of a new reservoir at Cheddar in Bristol, and the development of water grid to connect strategic reservoirs in the south west. We will continue to develop drought-resistant infrastructure, reduce leakage on the network and at households. We will tackle pollution at every beach by 2030, five years ahead of target. These projects are designed to ensure we adapt to changing climate conditions, meet the needs of communities, and support housing and growth.

Innovation and technology are at the heart of our strategy. We are exploring the use of smart meters, AI-driven analytics, and other cutting-edge technologies to improve operational efficiency, enhance customer service, and support our environmental goals.

We are developing four new water supply schemes equivalent to 70 million litres per day. This includes developing both the Mendips Quarry and Poole Harbour regional supply schemes and developing and commencing construction of the new Cheddar 2 reservoir . This is in addition to the substantial new water resources currently being developed, such as the South Cornwall desalination plant. We are also taking action to reduce demand, including reducing leakage to less than 10% on our pipes.

We are committed to transparency and accountability. We have robust monitoring and evaluation systems to track our progress and make necessary adjustments. We regularly publish performance reports, engage with communities and stakeholders, and maintain open communication with our customers.

The proposed bill increases will fund essential investments in our infrastructure and services. These investments are crucial for improving water quality, reducing pollution, enhancing customer service, and ensuring the resilience of our water supply in the face of climate change. 

To fund some of the investment, we will be raising funds from investors. By attracting investment, we can spread the cost of these essential improvements over a longer period, keeping bills lower for customers. This will mean we can make necessary upgrades now while enabling customers to pay for them gradually.

Investors are allowed a fair return on their investment. This is included in the bills we collect from customers. The level of returns is set by Ofwat, and is similar to the level when savings are deposited in a bank account.