SURFACE WATER DRAINAGE CHARGES AND THE VOLUNTARY SECTOR

That this House notes the impact of increased charges by some water companies for surface water drainage on places of worship, scout and guide associations and community amateur sports clubs; is concerned that the new charging method based on site area is unaffordable for these groups; is further concerned that Ofwat is requiring companies to set out their charging structures by 2010; calls on the Government to use the forthcoming Flood and Water Management Bill to grant Ofwat the authority to allow water companies to charge for drainage in a way they consider to be fair and proportionate for these customers; and further calls on water companies to recognise the value of the voluntary sector and their corporate social responsibility to ensure that customers are protected from disproportionately large price increases.