United Utilities unveils £745m North West recovery plan

Warrington-based water giant United Utilities said on Monday it has unveiled a £745 million plan “to support a green economic recovery, helping to create and safeguard jobs while generating lasting benefits for customers, communities and the environment.”

United Utilities said its new investment plans include “delivering environmental improvements in rivers, protecting habitats, combating invasive species, enhancing water quality, drainage and reducing pollution.”

It will involve the company working with over 30 organisations in order to deliver through partnerships.

United Utilities said it has responded to calls from the UK Government and regulators to seek opportunities for new investment that supports a sustainable recovery and has outlined £145 million of proposals that it has “worked up with partner organisations.”

In addition, United Utilities said it is also fast tracking over £600 million of investment set out in its current five year business plan “which will help bring investment benefits to the North West earlier, supporting jobs and prosperity across the region.”

The group said an independent study estimates that United Utilities’ current business plan will support 22,700 jobs every year up to 2025.

United Utilities CEO Steve Mogford said: “As we start to emerge from the pandemic, United Utilities is determined to play its part in supporting economic prosperity across our region.

“We believe we have a great opportunity to use our ambitious investment plans to build a greener, more sustainable future, while helping the region recover from the punishing economic impact of the pandemic.

“We are trying to do all that we can both to ensure the region emerges stronger from the pandemic and that our investment continues to support a green, sustainable recovery.

“We hope our plans can play their part in supporting families and communities, delivering a recovery of which we can all be proud.

“We have submitted a bold package that outlines how we are already accelerating over £600 million of investment but we want to do more.

“We are seeking regulatory approval for a further £145 million of investment.

“Our proposals provide protection for customer bills and value for money whilst securing early delivery of environmental benefits.”