Could water bill reform be on horizon after our campaign?

Montgomeryshire MS Russell George, a big supporter of MyWelshpool's campaign to re-think our ludicous water bill rises, has taken steps towards potential long-term reform in water pricing during a critical meeting with the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) at a Senedd event he hosted this week.

The event, brought together key stakeholders including water regulator Ofwat, Hafren Dyfrdwy, Welsh Water, and the CCW. It was organised by Mr George in direct response to mounting public concern over steep and sudden rises in household and business water bills across Wales, which have been the subject of a sustained campaign by us.

MyWelshpool launched our campaign after discovering numerous instances where water bill increases appeared to exceed those permitted within Ofwat guidelines, with some residents reporting increases of over 100% in just two years.

A major outcome from the discussions was Mr George's interest in exploring the CCW's proposal for a single, consistent social tariff across England and Wales. According to the CCW, this model would offer targeted financial support based on need rather than postcode, aiming to cap water bills at no more than 5% of a household's income after housing costs.

"The recommendation for a single social tariff is an interesting concept and I would like to see further work in this area to see if it would be beneficial for the people of Montgomeryshire," Mr George commented after hosting the event.

The proposed single social tariff would create a standardised discount scheme applying consistently across all water companies, ending what the CCW describes as "the postcode lottery of water bills".

Mr George has previously described the recent sharp rise in water bills as "completely unacceptable" and has taken multiple steps to demand accountability and support for struggling households and businesses. In response to widespread constituent concerns, he has met with both Ofwat and local water provider Hafren Dyfrdwy to challenge the dramatic increases and raise individual case studies.

During previous meetings with Hafren Dyfrdwy, the Senedd member highlighted alarming examples including a working family with a disabled child whose bill has surged from £397 in 2020-21 to a projected £945 in 2025-26, and an elderly couple facing a 46% increase this year alone. A local business reported an even more staggering 52% rise in charges. Many of our readers, including our correspondents, all report bill increases approaching 50% this year.

In these discussions, Ofwat claimed the steep bill increases were necessary to fund critical infrastructure upgrades. However, Hafren Dyfrdwy confirmed that even after these projects are completed, bills are unlikely to fall, as future payments will be used to service borrowing costs and ongoing maintenance. Mr George challenged this rationale, calling for greater long-term affordability and transparency in pricing.

Our campaign has documented dozens of similar cases across the region, with residents expressing outrage that essential water services have become increasingly unaffordable for ordinary families.

The CCW, which is the independent voice for water consumers in England and Wales, exists to help consumers resolve complaints against water companies. They have an advice hub with information and tools to help people reduce bills or access financial support, including guidance on various schemes water companies provide.

Mr George is continuing to gather evidence from residents and businesses to press for further accountability. He stated: "I am committed to continuing discussion with all parties involved, including the Government, to ensure we deal with the recent sharp rise in water bills which are completely unacceptable."

Anyone affected by sudden water bill increases is encouraged to contact Russell George MS to share their experience.