Water is an essential part of our daily lives. From world-class drinking water in our homes, to the safe treatment and disposal of wastewater, water companies play a vital role.  

The water industry wants to invest to tackle the challenges created by a growing population, climate change and extreme weather, as well as supporting and enabling economic growth.

Water companies in England and Wales submitted ambitious plans to the economic regulator Ofwat, proposing the largest-ever investment in the sector.  

On 19th December 2024, Ofwat approved £104bn investment into water and sewage infrastructure between 2025 and 2030 and this represents a near doubling of expenditure compared to the previous five years.  

These plans will:  

• Fund the development of 10 new reservoirs and major new water transfer schemes.
• Upgrade England’s ageing pipes and reduce leakage by a third.
• Clean up our rivers by reducing sewage spills from storm overflows by 50%.
• Protect plant and aquatic life in rivers by removing harmful levels of phosphorus.  
• Reduce flooding and improve water quality and biodiversity by construction of 31 wetlands.  

The £104bn will also drive economic growth by enabling new homes and essential services such as hospitals and schools to be built, to meet the demands of a growing population.