Water companies should face fines for wasted water

Consumers in South Lakeland are being forced to pay higher and higher bills while a "ridiculous" amount of water continues to be wasted according to Liberal Democrat Environment Spokesman Tim Farron MP.

Figures uncovered by the Liberal Democrats have revealed 3.3 billion litres of water - the equivalent to more than 1,300 Olympic-sized swimming pools - leaked out of the water network every day in 2007/08.

Under proposals put forward by the Liberal Democrats, water regulator Ofwat would be given the power to set stricter leakage targets and stiffer fines for water firms if they do not improve the situation.

Commenting Mr Farron said:

"It is mind boggling to think that the equivalent of more than 1,300 Olympic size swimming pools worth of water is lost every day from leaking pipes.

"Year after year, residents in South Lakeland have seen their water bills shoot up and yet so much water is still being wasted.

"Water companies should be forced to meet much tougher leakage targets or face big fines."