The report from the Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) highlights the remarkable transformation of the water industry over the past ten years, the cumulative effect of which is that average household bills are around £105 a year lower than they would otherwise have been. At the same time, customer service levels have improved markedly, leakage has been cut by around 36%, and more than £5.5 billion has been invested in maintaining current assets, and improving drinking water quality and environmental performance.

WICS announced its major review of prices for the period 2010-15 in November. Charges are being held at below inflation over the next five years, while customers will see marked improvements in service levels and in public health and environmental performance.

Sir Ian Byatt, chairman of WICS said: “At a time of economic uncertainly our review brought good news for customers, with charges being kept substantially below inflation for the next five years. The review also allowed for a sustainable future for the Scottish water industry, and finances an investment programme of £2.5 billion. This investment will maintain the assets, improve environmental and public health performance, and promote a greener water industry which will benefit Scotland for many years to come.”