Water companies in England have published a landmark report which sets out how they plan to significantly reduce leakage by 2050. Highlights include:

• It outlines how water companies will triple leakage reduction by 2030 and halve leakage by 2050
• Leakage across the network at lowest levels since records began following significant investment and innovation by industry
• Further progress – alongside new water transfers, reservoirs, and water efficiency – essential for avoiding drought mid-century and reducing abstraction from rivers
• Water companies are also calling on Government and regulators to support more replacement of old pipes, to match European replacement rates

The ambitious Leakage Routemap 2050 provides a framework for companies to meet their commitment to triple the rate of leakage reduction by 2030 and halve leakage by 2050. The 2030 target was set out in the 2019 Public Interest Commitment while the 2050 pledge has been endorsed by the National Infrastructure Committee.

The Routemap was be launched by Peter Simpson, Anglian Water Chief Executive and Bob Taylor, Portsmouth Water Chief Executive. Alongside Stuart Ledger, Affinity Water Chief Executive, the three companies have sponsored the development of the report on behalf of the whole industry.

Leakage is a major priority for the industry and, thanks to major investment, knowledge-sharing and innovation water companies have managed to reduced leakage to the lowest level on record. However, the equivalent of 1,245 Olympic swimming pools is still leaked every day in England and Wales.

The full report can be found here.