New water boss pledges a stronger, greener and healthier North West

• Louise Beardmore becomes new CEO of regional water company United Utilities
• Investment of more than £900 million planned for water and environmental improvements

On becoming the first female CEO at Warrington-based United Utilities, the region’s water service provider, Louise Beardmore pledged to help make the North West stronger, greener and healthier.

Louise, who was born in Liverpool and who lives in the North West, announced today that the water company is planning to bring forward investment to the tune of £914 million with region-wide benefits, reducing spills from storm overflows, creating jobs and boosting the resilience of communities and the local environment.

“I am very clear about the responsibilities United Utilities has to deliver great services for customers, to protect and enhance the environment and to ensure we are investing in the infrastructure we need in the region to support future growth and climate change.

“We have an ambitious plan, including the largest investment programme we have ever delivered as we seek to enable a step change in environmental performance right across the region. I know we have much more to do, addressing the things that matter most to our customers and which benefit the region and I am committed to doing that.

“I am equally passionate about protecting those households who are struggling financially which is why we have sector leading support packages available for those who need help with their water bills. I am keen we strengthen that support as we move forward too.

“I look forward to working with many other organisations and partners across the North West as collaboration is key to the continued success of the place we all call home.”

Added Louise: “We have a dedicated workforce, proud to be serving the people of this region and I’m excited to get started in my new role because there’s a lot to do.”

The accelerated funding, announced today, is subject to consultation with stakeholders until Monday 24 April.

The £914 million is broken down into three areas:

• £719 million for reducing storm overflow spills, helping protect water quality at inland waterways across the North West – including Windermere in the Lake District
• £117 million for habitat improvements in and around the River Eden in Cumbria
• £78 million to reduce the frequency of storm overflow spills into bathing waters