Summary
The head of South East Water admitted to lawmakers that the company did not meet its basic goal of providing water to customers in parts of Kent and Sussex. Thousands of homes faced water supply issues over the winter, leading to significant disruptions. The company has set up a compensation fund and is making infrastructure investments to prevent future issues.
Key Facts
- South East Water faced supply problems affecting 24,000 properties in November and December and up to 30,000 properties shortly after.
- The disruptions affected homes and businesses, causing financial losses and school closures.
- South East Water's chairman, Chris Train, acknowledged failures in delivering water.
- The company launched a £600,000 compensation fund for affected businesses.
- SEW's chief executive, David Hinton, has been criticized but keeps his position with the board's support.
- Hinton gave up his annual bonus amid calls for his resignation.
- SEW customers' bills are expected to rise by 7% starting in April.
- SEW plans to invest £2.1 billion in infrastructure and resilience over the next five years.
