Water & Wastewater Treatment Magazine
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12 | XXXXX 20XX | WWT | www.wwtonline.co.uk The Works O fwat's initial assessment of water companies' business plans for 2020-25 will have made difficult reading for many water utilities, with only three of the plans being given "fast track" status and the remainder being shunted back to the companies for further improvement. Severn Trent, South West Water and United Utilities were the three to gain the seal of approval as 'fast track' although it was notable that no water company achieved the top category of 'exceptional' that might have been bestowed by the regulator. Affinity Water, Hafren Dyfrdwy, Thames Water and Southern Water were the four companies at the bottom of the class, with their plans earmarked for 'significant scrutiny', while the remaining eight companies were labelled as 'slow track'. Ofwat chief executive Rachel Fletcher said: "We have challenged all water companies to deliver more for less for customers over the next five years. "They've listened to the customers they serve. We're seeing an increased focus on the things closest to people's hearts such as keeping bills affordable, cutting leakage, protecting the environ- ment and helping those most in need. "Three companies have already stepped up to the mark with high quality plans and stretching commitments to customers for the next five years. The rest of the sector now needs to meet this high standard so that customers across the country get better and more efficient services." The regulator's initial assessment of water companies' business plans reveals that a tight financial settlement is on the cards, with companies challenged to be more ambitious in several key areas By James Brockett Ofwat's assessments keep water companies in check 12 | MARCH 2019 | WWT | www.wwtonline.co.uk