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Community groups saved from surface water drainage charges

pigeon standing in a puddle of waterCommunity groups will be offered a reprieve from increased charges for surface water drainage, Environment Secretary Hilary Benn announced today.

Groups such as scouts, village halls, faith groups and amateur sports clubs – many of which have been facing disproportionally large bills – will benefit from changes to legislation.

Surface water drainage charges are levied by water and sewerage companies for the removal and treatment of rain that falls on roofs, car parks and other non-permeable surfaces before draining into public sewers.

Mr Benn said: "Some churches, sports clubs and youth groups have been hit by huge increases in their water bills for surface drainage. It isn’t right. So I can tell you today that we will legislate to allow water companies to run concessionary schemes for these organisations so they can get on with the great job they are doing instead of worrying about unaffordable bills."

The legislation, which will form part of the Flood and Water Management Bill, was also welcomed by Environment Minister Huw Irranca-Davies. In July, Mr Irranca-Davies met cubs and scouts from around the country and pledged to help groups affected by the charges.

He added: "While all customers should contribute towards the cost of surface water drainage, increases in bills of several hundred percent or more are clearly unaffordable for community and voluntary groups, and we cannot be in a position where this would force them to close... I am confident that this will provide a national solution that will mean a fairer deal."

Further information

Press release: Defra Minister pledges action on 'Rain Tax'

 

Page last modified: 28 September 2009
Page published: 28 September 2009