The big picture
The BIG Upgrade brings together 17 regional water companies across England. As a result of our collective action, we’ll be able to store more water, reduce leaks, improve water resilience, cut storm overflow usage and plan our resources better. It’s how we’ll ensure our operations are fit for the future and ensuring we deliver the service our customers expect and deserve.
A big responsibility
Everyone needs water to drink, wash, cook, clean and much more. But the pipes that supply our homes and businesses are aging and need upgrading. And as our climate changes and demand grows, the way we manage water must change too.
That’s why water companies are building 10 new reservoirs over the next 15 years and beyond. Thousands of miles of pipes have already been replaced and water companies will be replacing thousands more.
The Big Upgrade is raising awareness about this huge national effort to improve our country’s water networks. The biggest investment in a generation will see £100 billion spent between 2025-2030 to replace water pipes, reduce leaks and upgrade sewers. Our customers will see more visible work in their communities and may feel an increase in their bills too. We know this is a big ask and we’re committed to showing the value of every pound spent.
The Big Upgrade is run by Water UK for water companies in England. You can email us at [email protected]
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The Big Upgrade is raising awareness about the £100 billion upgrade to our country’s water networks. It is run by Water UK with and for water companies in England.
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Water companies are building new reservoirs, replacing thousands of miles of pipes, and upgrading sewers. This will enable us to store more water, reduce leaks, and cut storm overflow use.
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Water UK is the trade body for the UK’s water companies and is running the Big Upgrade on behalf of the following water companies in England: Anglian Water, Bournemouth Water, Bristol Water, Cambridge Water, Essex and Suffolk Water, Northumbrian Water, Portsmouth Water, SES Water, South East Water, South West Water, Southern Water, South Staffordshire Water, Severn Trent Water, Thames Water, United Utilities, Wessex Water, Yorkshire Water.
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All water companies are carrying out upgrades from 2025 to 2030. You can use our interactive map to find out more about what is happening in your area.
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We don’t have a single list of projects. You can find out more about what is happening in your area by accessing your water company’s website through our interactive map.
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The advertising is paid for by Water UK on behalf of the sponsoring water companies listed above.
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The money raised by water bills can only be used to fund infrastructure that is independently determined to be new, necessary and value for money. There is a money-back guarantee which means that if improvements are not delivered, customer bills will automatically be refunded by the regulator.
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You can email us at [email protected]