The Consumer Council for Water will be looking at how water companies plan to manage water resources when it meets at the National Railway Museum in York on 23 September.

Andrea Cook, Chair of the Consumer Council for Water’s Northern Committee, said: “Consumers tell us that a safe and reliable water supply is one of their top priorities. Following the recent drought status, which led to a hosepipe ban in areas served by United Utilities, customers will want to see that water companies are doing all they can to manage their water resources responsibly. This includes extra effort in detecting and repairing leaks.”

“At the meeting, we will be speaking to local water companies about their plans to ensure they have sufficient water resources into the future, and to the Environment Agency about the environmental impact of low flows in rivers. Water remains a precious resource and we urge people and businesses to use it responsibly.  We would welcome members of the public coming along to share their views.”

Other issues on the agenda include a review of the Drinking Water Inspectorate’s latest report on water quality, updates on companies’ activities and operations and feedback on the number of complaints received by the Consumer Council for Water about the water companies.

The watchdog’s Northern Committee represents customers of Hartlepool Water, Northumbrian Water, Yorkshire Water and United Utilities.

Members of the public are welcome to attend and will have an opportunity to raise any issues relating to water and sewerage services during the listening session at the start of the meeting.

The meeting will begin at 10 am on Thursday 23 September 2010 at the National Railway Museum, Leeman Road, York YO26 4XJ.