MP Helen Southworth is challenging Warrington-based United Utilities to back down from plans for huge increases in surface area and highway drainage charges for community groups. 
The utilities giant, with the backing of OFWAT, has changed the way non-households pay for surface area and highway drainage. This change has meant many community organisations are now facing massive increases in their water bills.
Some will see their bills rise from zero to £2,000 per annum.
The Warrington South MP (pictured) is now co-sponsoring a Private Members Bill in Parliament to require energy companies to exempt Places of Worship, Community Sports Clubs, Scouts and Guide Groups from surface water and highway drainage charging. She has also met with the chairman of Ofwat and senior officials to stress the need for urgent and decisive action by water companies.
She said: “Scout Groups and Guide Associations, Places of Worship, and Community Sports Clubs play a really big role in the community. Every extra pound they are charged by United Utilities is a pound they cannot spend on local services.”
MP on the warpath over drainage charges
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
