Water charges will rise by less than two per cent

An increase in household charges from April 1st (for the year 2015/16) will be limited to 1.6% – around £6 a year for the average household. It means the average Scottish Water household charge in 2015/16 will be £346.

As a result the average household charge in Scotland is expected to be £40 lower than the average household bill in England and Wales.

The new charges are within price limits set by the Water Industry Commission for Scotland based on a new six-year agreement between Scottish Water and the Customer Forum, which represented the interests of customers.

The agreement, which commences in April, provides stability in charges for customers, say the Water Authority. Douglas Millican, Chief Executive, said, “Our customers expect us to build on the significant improvements we have made to water services for the benefit of all our customers in Scotland as we embark on our new, six-year regulatory period.

“Our customers have told us that they value certainty in their charges over the medium term. This announcement signals stability in water charges for the coming years and provides certainty for customers. It follows a major customer consultation exercise and extensive discussion with customers and stakeholders, including the Customer Forum for water, to agree a 2015-21 business plan.” He added, “Charges allow us to maintain investment – ensuring we continue to provide fresh, clearer drinking water for our customers, while protecting and enhancing the environment and supporting the Scottish economy. It means that, by 2021, household bills will have fallen further in real terms – which is good news for customers.” Combined Household Charges (water supply and waste water) for 2015/16 will be for a Band A home £278.22 Band B £324.59; Band C £370.96; Band D £417.33; Band E £510.07; Band F £602.81; Band G £695.55; Band H £834.66.