Scottish Water has published its strategic business plan for the 2027–2033 period, outlining a massive £13.4 billion investment programme to protect and enhance Scotland's water and wastewater networks.

The six-year proposal focuses on navigating the "triple threat" of climate change, a shifting population, and an increasingly fragile, ageing infrastructure base.

Central to the plan is an £8 billion allocation dedicated specifically to the maintenance and improvement of vital physical assets, including the national network of pipes and treatment works. The remaining budget will be directed toward operational costs to ensure the continued delivery of safe and efficient services. To fund these extensive capital works, Scottish Water has proposed an annual charge increase of 3.3% above CPI, noting that 53% of Scottish households currently receive financial support to assist with bills.

-- Advertisement --

The plan was shaped by consultation with over 25,000 customers, who identified water quality, leakage reduction, and environmental protection as top priorities. As a publicly owned entity, Scottish Water maintains that every penny of revenue is reinvested into the system, contributing to local jobs, skills development, and regional economic activity.

Alex Plant, Chief Executive of Scottish Water, said: "This plan sets out how we can continue to provide high quality, reliable water and wastewater services for Scotland, while keeping customer bills as low as possible. Protection of essential services and investing for the future must be done in a way that is fair and affordable. These have been tough choices, but we are confident the plan strikes the right balance for customers, communities and the environment."

The proposals are now subject to review by the Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS). A Draft Determination is expected in June 2026, followed by a Final Determination in October 2026, which will officially set the investment levels and customer charges for the new six-year cycle.

This business plan serves as a major milestone in delivering the "Scotland's Water Sector Vision" and follows the company's Long-Term Strategy published in 2025. Once finalized, a detailed Delivery Plan will be released to outline specific project timelines across the country.