Jane Kennedy, MP

Wavertree MP Jane Kennedy has welcomed changes in the law to ensure that local community organisations do not face big water bills because of drainage charges.

This follows a long campaign from the Rugby Football Union, the Church of England, Scout Association and many other voluntary groups against steep and unaffordable rises in their bills.

Jane, who is Patron of Fairfield Scouts, said: “This change to the law will allow water companies to introduce concessionary schemes that will mean a fairer deal when they pay their water bill for the kind of organisations that are at the heart of our communities.

“Some churches, sports clubs and youth groups have been hit by huge increases in their water bills for surface drainage. The change in the law will stop this.”

Surface water drainage is the water which runs from roofs, car parks and other hard surfaces straight into the drains.

The new legislation will enable water and sewerage companies in England and Wales to operate concessionary schemes for community premises for the purpose of surface water drainage charges.

United Utilities system introduced surface water charges based on site area, leading to significant problems for community and voluntary organisations.

Over 45,000 people signed a No.10 e-petition calling for the issue to be resolved.