We, the undersigned, are appalled by Ofwat's decision to allow water companies in England and Wales to increase customer bills by an average of 36% over the next five years. This is a daylight robbery, especially given the water industry's shocking record of pollution, leaks, and profiteering.

Here's why this is outrageous:

• Widespread water scandals: This year alone, water companies have been responsible for countless sewage spills and pollution incidents, devastating our rivers, coastlines, and wildlife. They are failing to meet their basic environmental obligations.
• Missed targets & Payouts: Despite missing targets on pollution and leaks, some water companies are being rewarded with bill increases for exceeding other targets. This is a perverse incentive that puts profits before people and the planet.
• Underinvestment & Profits: Water companies have a long history of underinvesting in essential infrastructure while paying out massive dividends to shareholders and awarding exorbitant salaries to executives.

We demand action!

• Reverse the bill hike: Ofwat must immediately reverse its decision on the water bill increase and conduct a thorough review of the system, prioritising the protection of our environment and public health.
• Hold Water Companies Accountable: Water companies must be held fully accountable for their environmental performance. We demand stricter penalties for pollution incidents and a ban on bill increases for companies that fail to meet their obligations.
• Affordable water for all: The government must implement a social tariff for vulnerable households to ensure access to affordable water for everyone.

The facts are clear

• Profits over people: While water companies plead poverty and demand bill increases, their executives continue to rake in massive salaries and bonuses. In 2023, the average water company CEO earned over £1 million! This is a disgrace when customers are struggling to pay their bills while our waterways are being polluted.
• Lack of transparency: The current system is shrouded in secrecy. Water companies operate with minimal public scrutiny, and Ofwat's regulatory framework is failing to protect the interests of customers and the environment. We demand greater transparency and a stronger regulatory system that puts people and planet first.
• Sustainable solutions ignored: Instead of squeezing more money from customers, water companies should prioritise investment in sustainable water management solutions. This includes upgrading outdated infrastructure, reducing leaks, and implementing nature-based solutions to improve water quality and reduce our reliance on polluting storm overflows.

From Windermere (2024), where United Utilities dumped millions of litres of sewage into a national park, to the River Wye's ongoing pollution crisis (since 2021), and South West Water's illegal discharges in 2023, the industry's disregard for our environment is a shocking state of affairs.

Join the fight!

Sign this petition NOW for clean water and affordable bills, to add your voice and demand action on water bills ~

Together, we can make a difference!