Anglian Water has received its Final Determination from Ofwat, the UK water industry regulator, for its £11 billion investment plan for 2025-2030. The plan aims to address the region’s growing water and sewerage needs, create jobs, enhance environmental protection, and support the rapidly expanding East of England economy.
Key Investments and Benefits
The East of England is projected to grow by approximately 700,000 people over the next two decades. The region faces unique challenges, including water scarcity, climate change impacts, and significant flood risks. Anglian Water’s plan aims to:
- Tackle Pollution and Enhance the Environment: Doubling environmental investment to over £4 billion, including £2.7 billion for flood and drought resilience.
- Develop Infrastructure:
- £635 million for new water pipelines serving Norfolk, Suffolk, and Essex.
- £660 million for two new reservoirs in Lincolnshire and the Fens to supply nearly 750,000 people and safeguard water resources.
- Support Customers: Introducing a robust financial support package for vulnerable customers, including discounted tariffs for those at risk of water poverty or with specific medical needs.
CEO Mark Thurston’s Statement
Mark Thurston, CEO of Anglian Water, highlighted the dual focus on infrastructure and customer support:
“Our £11 billion programme will create thousands of skilled, well-paid jobs, driving housing, commerce, and industry growth. Despite one of the largest investment plans, we’ve ensured one of the UK’s lowest bill increases for customers.”
Thurston added that Anglian Water’s efforts put it at the heart of one of the UK’s most economically vibrant regions, balancing affordability with transformative investments.
Strategic Regional Challenges
The East of England faces unique pressures:
- It is the fastest-growing region in the UK, with critical agricultural and green energy industries.
- The area is one of the driest in the country, exacerbated by below-sea-level geography, posing flooding risks.
- Climate change directly impacts water scarcity and coastal ecosystems.
Ofwat’s Acknowledgment and Next Steps
Ofwat has commended the quality of Anglian Water’s proposals through its Business Planning process. Over the coming weeks, Anglian Water will review feedback from the Final Determination and engage further with the regulator as needed.
This ambitious plan underlines Anglian Water’s commitment to sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and customer care in one of the UK’s most dynamic regions.