North East Water Bills set to rise higher than expected

Water bills for households across the North East are set to rise higher than expected, after the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) allowed Northumbrian Water an extra 1% increase on top of Ofwat’s original ruling.

It means the average annual bill will rise to around £495, though the company will remain the cheapest all-service water provider in the country.

The CMA said the move would help companies meet new legal and environmental obligations, including improving supply resilience and reducing pollution, while keeping increases “to a minimum” amid cost-of-living pressures.

Ofwat had previously approved a 19% increase for Northumbrian Water, but the firm argued that wasn’t enough to fund infrastructure improvements.

In response, Northumbrian Water said it is reviewing the CMA’s provisional ruling and promised customers will be notified of any changes in advance. The company added that financial support schemes remain available, including payment plans, breaks and discounts for low-income households.

The CMA is inviting public feedback on the proposals until 6 November before making a final decision.