Region told to cut water use

Water supplies to homes throughout the Midlands could be severely restricted in 25 years unless urgent action is taken, officials warned today.

Severn Trent said water metering could become standard for all houses as it warned it would not have enough supplies to meet everyone's needs by 2033.

A report released today reveals its plans to ensure water supplies are maintained in the region, which covers the West Midlands and parts of Staffordshire.

Water services director Andy Smith said: "The pattern of more households using more water and the predicted effect of climate change means we probably won't have enough water available to meet everyone's needs in 25 years' time.

"We need to act now to secure supplies and manage demand so that customers don't face restrictions."

The company plans to reduce demand through metering and an education programme to encourage people to use water wisely.

The steps are likely to mean sharply rising bills in future for using water.

Severn Trent faces fines of more than £100 million for misleading the industry watchdog about the extent of water leakage and for overcharging customers. It says plugging leaks remains one of its top priorities.