Northumbrian Water is set to invest billions of pounds into the regional economy as part of its proposed new business plan.
More than £3 billion will be spent by the company providing water and wastewater services in the coming years, with a substantial proportion of the investment to be to be spent in the local areas that the company serves.
Northumbrian Water own assets worth many billions of pounds, employ more than 3,000 people, and have a network of more than 2,000 supply chain partners, many of whom are based in the north east.
The huge announcement comes as part of the water company’s 2020 – 2025 business plan submission that industry regulator OFWAT is currently busy assessing.
A big part of this plan is around helping to build a stronger economy in the north east and as a company with a strong track record as a responsible business they feel it is important that they demonstrate leadership and make a wider contribution to life within the region.
As well the big financial investment the company is making they have also promised to offer tailored help and support for local suppliers on how to contract with the business.
They are also continuing their commitment to donate at least 1% of pre-tax profits to charitable causes in the regions where they operate and also supporting at least half of the company’s employees to volunteer their time through the ‘Just an hour scheme’ donating time and expertise to support local communities.
Northumbrian Water Group Commercial Director Graham Southall said: “This is a really vital part of our plan because it’s all about working with, and supporting, our local communities and our local people.
“We’re a big company and we know that our activities have a ‘ripple effect’, going far beyond our direct investment through trade with local suppliers to benefit our regional economies.
“Through supporting our customers and our communities and helping facilitate their success, we can strengthen our relationships with them, which in turn supports their participation in shaping our activities.
“Our goal is to become the most socially responsible water company in the industry and to continue to support our region to grow and thrive.”
To find out more about this and for more details on ‘Our Plan’ visit www.nwgourplan.co.uk and follow us on social media @Northumbrianh2O / @northumbrianwater #NWOurPlan