Our biggest upgrade in 150 years
We’re carrying out the biggest ever upgrade to our network.
With a record-breaking investment of over £20 billion, we’re fixing leaks, reducing pollution and protecting water quality.
This isn’t just maintenance. This is a ground-breaking programme designed to upgrade your water and wastewater services for generations to come.
The money you spend on your bill will directly contribute to this work. You’ll be helping to fund a stronger water system, healthier rivers and top-quality water on tap.
A future built to last
With a total of over 140,000km of water pipes and sewers, our network would stretch around the world more than three times. Here's how we plan to keep it flowing for 2030 and beyond.
Fixing leaks
- Investing billions of pounds to boost the resilience of our water network
- Replacing hundreds of miles of leaky pipes
- Installing over 1 million more smart meters and using innovative tech to help locate leaks
Preventing pollution
- Investing £5 billion to upgrade hundreds of sewage treatment works
- Cleaning sewers regularly to reduce blockages that cause sewer flooding
- Upgrading stormwater systems to reduce storm overflows
Protecting water quality
- Investing to improve the quality of water before treatment
- Carrying out more than half a million quality tests every year
- Replacing lead pipes
A legacy of innovation
In the mid-1800s, Sir Joseph Bazalgette designed and built London’s vast sewer network. This incredible feat of engineering changed our region forever.
For over 150 years, this system has stood the test of time, supported by decades of upgrades across London and the Thames Valley. It continues to flow to this day, now serving millions more people than Bazalgette could ever have imagined.
The challenge ahead
Our population has doubled since Bazalgette designed the network. And extreme weather – like heatwaves and heavy rain – is putting extra pressure on our pipes.
But just as Bazalgette’s vision has kept our region flowing for 150 years, we’re investing to keep it flowing for the next 150.
We’re putting all our drive and determination into tackling leaks, bursts and pollution and delivering a better service for you.
What we're working on
Keep an eye out for improvements in your area.