Southern Water Criticised After Missing County Hall Meeting Again

Southern Water has been criticised after failing to attend another meeting at County Hall, with one Isle of Wight councillor describing the absence as “disgraceful” and “unacceptable”.

Alliance councillor Paul Fuller said he was “very disappointed” the private utility company was once again not present at last Thursday’s (March 26) environment and community protection committee.

Speaking during the meeting, Cllr Fuller, who represents Cowes West and Gurnard, highlighted what he described as “quite significant” increases in Southern Water bills and said he was “seething” and “embarrassed” that no representative attended.

From April 2026, the average household bill for combined water and wastewater services is set to rise by eight per cent.

Southern Water has previously said the increase will help fund projects aimed at reducing flooding, fixing leaks and protecting the environment.

The criticism came during a scrutiny discussion into flooding along the Eastern Yar.

Cllr Fuller said:

“This is the second meeting now where we haven’t had a representative from Southern Water. I just feel that it’s disgraceful.

“They only have to come to several meetings a year and they don’t bother coming along. I have a question for Southern Water – can’t ask it because they’re not here.

“I find that kind of thing unacceptable.”

Chair of the committee, Alliance councillor Karen Lucioni, agreed, describing the absence as “not respectful”.

Responding on Monday (March 30), a spokesperson for Southern Water apologised for missing the meeting.

They said:

“We apologise for not attending the meeting and have apologised directly to the service director at the council.

“We enjoy a good working relationship with the council and always do our utmost to attend regular meetings.

“We have already confirmed attendance at the next committee meeting and look forward to discussing our local projects and plans, including Southern Water’s £99 million investment between 2025 and 2030 on the Island, to improve bathing water quality, prevent flooding and develop new water sources, reducing reliance on the mainland.”