South West Water suggests potential price rise

The Government has spoken out against a potential rise in South West Water's bills that could see over £20 being added to students' water bills.

The current average water charge in the South West is already £111-£499 above the national average, despite a £50 Government subsidy for customers in the region.

Owen Paterson, the Environment Secretary, recently wrote to all UK water companies to ensure that they keep aware of any increases in prices.

The Water Minister Dan Rogerson MP, whose constituency is in North Cornwall has urged Ofwat, the regulatory body for water and sewage providers in the UK, to “get under the skin” of the water companies during negotiations. He also claims that the Government is providing “political cover” for Ofwat to “get tough” with water companies.

South West Water stated that they would be announcing the 2014/15 plans and outline proposals for investment and charges between 2015 and 2020 as part of their Final Business Plan. The utility company has acknowledged the high cost of water to students, adding that, as of yet, “no final decisions have been made on bills for next year”.