Full Breakdown
Yorkshire Water Slid to One-Star Environmental Rating
By Drooid · · How we work
In this breakdown
01
Core Event
The Environment Agency (EA) downgraded Yorkshire Water from two to one star in its latest Environmental Performance Assessment, classifying the firm as a “poor-performing company.” The rating reflects a sharp rise in pollution incidents, with the water utility responsible for 260 incidents in 2025, up from 151 the previous year—the highest total since 2011. Yorkshire Water serves 2.4 million homes across the region.
02
Background & Context
The EA’s annual assessment rates England’s nine water and sewerage companies on river, stream and sea pollution. In 2025 the sector recorded 2,991 pollution incidents nationwide. Yorkshire Water’s downgrade follows a broader industry trend: South West Water, Southern Water and Thames Water also received one-star ratings, leaving only one company with a four-star score. The regulator’s overall star tally fell to 16 out of a possible 36.
03
Data & Statistics
- Pollution incidents: 260 in 2025 (Yorkshire Water) vs. 151 in 2024.
- Investment plan: £8.3 billion pledged for 2025-2030, including £1.5 billion to cut storm-overflow discharges and 300 schemes delivered since April 2025.
- Customer bills: Average bills rose ~30 % in April 2025 and a further 5.6 % the following April.
- Shareholder contributions: £500 million invested over the past five years, with a further £600 million pledged by 2027.
04
Official Statements & Responses
“I can absolutely understand that, and our bill profile is set in line with Ofwat [the Water Services Regulation Authority], and it's making sure that we're delivering the £8.3bn investment.”