Water firm urged to “show compassion” after 50% bill increases

The outpouring of anger and disbelief over Hafren Dyfrdwy ordering us to pay an extra 50% on our water bills has continued with a prominent anti-poverty campaigner claiming the increases will push more people into financial trouble.

Newtown's Cllr Joy Jones has joined prominent voices, including MP Steve Witherden and MS Russell George in backing MyNewtown and MyWelshpool’s appeal for water bosses to have a rethink after the ludicrous increases were revealed earlier this month.

Hafren Dyfrdwy has promised to come back with another response following the customer backlash, but, this morning, Cllr Jones, who has fought hard for local people’s rights, said “our community deserves better”.

This is what she told us:

“I am deeply concerned about the unjust and disproportionate increase in water bills imposed by Hafren Dyfrdwy. At a time when countless families are grappling with the cost-of-living crisis, this decision is not only insensitive but also places undue financial strain on hardworking individuals who are already struggling to make ends meet.

“Water is an essential service, and customers have no choice over their provider. This lack of competition makes it all the more vital for companies like Hafren Dyfrdwy to act responsibly and with compassion towards their customers.

“Unfortunately, this substantial increase risks pushing many households into debt, especially those who fall outside the threshold for financial support yet are still fighting to stay afloat.

“I stand firmly with the residents of our community in opposing this unfair rise in bills.

“It is imperative that Hafren Dyfrdwy reassess their approach and prioritize the needs of the people they serve, particularly during such challenging economic times.

“I urge regulatory bodies, such as Ofwat, to investigate this matter thoroughly and ensure fairness and accountability.

“Our community deserves better, and I will continue to advocate for a resolution that protects our residents from unnecessary financial hardship.”

Hafren Dyfrdwy told us the money is needed to carry out £260m of urgent infrastructure work, and despite water regulator OfWat saying our bills should only go up by a total of £165 by 2030, they have only urged the water company to improve its communication with customers.

The shocking story came to light when our correspondent saw a near £200 increase to his bill, up by nearly 50% from the previous year. Our story drew dozens of responses from readers facing similar astronomical hikes.

We have asked both OfWat and Hafren Dyfrdwy for updated comments following the huge public backlash.