Water bills set for significant increase as Northumbrian Water confirms huge upgrade plans
Residents in Sunderland, South Tyneside, Newcastle and the wider North East face an average 6% increase in their water bills.
Northumbrian Water has confirmed the increase is to part fund a £2.6bn development package which it describes as the ‘biggest upgrade’ in its history.
The water company say the 800 projects are expected to be completed by 2030 which will strengthen essential water and sewer systems.
Northumbrian Water say the investment will “mean cleaner rivers, fewer flooding incidents and a reliable and resilient water supply now and for generations to come”.
The water company’s chiefs confirmed the cost of the upgrades will also be part funded by shareholders who “are are increasing their investment in the region”.
Commenting on the projected increase a Northumbrian Water spokesperson said: “The expected increase is around 6%, equivalent to £30 per year, meaning the average household bill is about £1.47 per day.”
“Even after this change, Northumbrian Water’s bills will remain among the lowest in England for combined water and wastewater services.
“The company knows any increase can be worrying and is providing extensive support for customers who need help.
“We have put together a £100m support package over the five years, which includes £20m of shareholder investment, to help customers who are struggling with their bills. This includes low-income discounts, payment breaks, flexible payment plans and access to free, independent debt advice.
“Last year, Northumbrian Water helped over 100,000 customers who were struggling and is ready to do even more this year.”
800 projects are planned across the North East, including several major developments in Sunderland.
In Washington, survey work is currently underway to inform a £3.4m investment to reduce spills from three storm overflows in the North East of the town. Work is expected to start in 2027.
In Houghton-le-Spring an £11m project has been earmarked to upgrade Sedgeletch sewage treatment works and related sewer network, to enhance the treatment provided and to protect Herrington Burn.
In Chester-le-Street there will be a £52m investment to reduce the frequency of spills from 12 storm overflows in the area.
Last year (2025) 800 metres of water mains old cast iron pipes along North Hylton Road were replaced with durable plastic to protect water quality and supply.
Northumbrian Water say the plan will boost the North East economy by £5.7bn, supporting thousands of jobs and local businesses.
A spokesperson said: “For every pound spent as part of the work, 60p of it will stay in the region, creating opportunities for local suppliers and contractors.”
Northumbrian Water say as a result of the upgrades the region can “expect cleaner rivers, waterways, and beaches, reduced flooding risks for homes, and more reliable water supplies during heatwaves and cold winters”.
Louise Hunter, Customer Director at Northumbrian Water, said: “This is the biggest investment we’ve ever made, and it’s all about protecting water supplies and the environment for us now, and for future generations, here in the North East.
“We’re already starting to see real improvements, and there’s lots more planned – projects that will improve our rivers, strengthen our networks, and make sure we have a water supply that’s ready for the future.
“We know that any increase in bills is a worry, and we don’t take that lightly. That’s why we’ve got more than £100m worth of support available for customers, including discounts and payment breaks, to make sure help is there for anyone who needs it. If you’re concerned, please reach out and we’ll work with you to find the right solution.”
Northumbrian Water said the easiest way for customers to manage their bills, and to see how the changes will impact them, is by signing up for an online account at www.nwl.co.uk/register.