Local billpayers have expressed their anger over an impending hike in water fees, branding the increases as outrageous and disgusting. Some residents have reported bill rises of over 40 per cent, with one household facing an increase of more than £200 for the 2025/26 financial year.
The fee changes follow a decision by regulator Ofwat, allowing water companies across England and Wales to raise bills by an average of 26 per cent. The increases, set to take effect from April, are intended to finance essential investment in environmental improvements and customer services. Severn Trent, one of the main suppliers in the region, has acknowledged the concerns and assured customers that financial assistance is available for those in need. The company has also pledged a £15 billion investment in community infrastructure over the next five years, including £60 million for replacing 135 miles of water pipes in Leicestershire.
However, residents remain unconvinced, questioning the justification behind such steep increases. One resident from Smeeton Westerby near Market Harborough, revealed that his water bill is set to rise by 44 per cent, far higher than the advertised average of 23.8 per cent for unmetered properties. His charges are increasing from £307 to £442, despite his wastewater being managed by Anglian Water rather than Severn Trent.
The resident took to social media to see if others were similarly affected. Many respondents shared his frustration. One person reported their bill rising from £349 to £501, bringing their combined costs for Severn Trent and Anglian Water close to £1,000. Others called the hikes disgusting and questioned how such large corporations could get away with this.
In response to the price hikes, some residents have opted to switch to water meters in an attempt to reduce costs. Unlike unmetered billing, which is based on a property’s rateable value, metered customers pay for the actual water they use. A resident from Fleckney decided to make the switch after her bill jumped from £754 to £995 per year.
Her quote for metered water was £48 per month, but until the first six-month bill arrives, it’s only an estimate. She worries that many people horrified by the increase will switch to water meters, and then Severn Trent will raise the cost of metered water.
Another resident, whose home in Great Glen was recently flooded, voiced frustration at being charged despite not being able to live in their property for up to nine months. They plan to change to a water meter when they move back.
A spokesperson for Severn Trent defended the increases, stating that their water bill remains the second lowest in England and that no Severn Trent customer should have to worry about paying their bill. They emphasized that plenty of support is available and that they have worked hard to keep costs as low and affordable as possible.
The company highlighted that any price increase is a concern, which is why they informed customers about their bill, the help available, and the investment taking place in their area. Over the next five years, they plan to deliver £15bn in investment—the equivalent of £3,000 for every household they serve. In Leicestershire alone, £60m is allocated to replacing 135 miles of pipes, creating 49 local jobs.
Severn Trent has also increased financial support, with some customers eligible for up to 70 per cent off their bill or assistance with debt. By 2030, they expect to support around 700,000 households with one of the most extensive financial aid packages in the industry.
Despite these assurances, many residents remain skeptical, calling for greater transparency and questioning whether the promised improvements justify such steep hikes in their bills.
