Scout group water hike trouble raised in Commans (From Droitwich Advertiser)

Scout group water hike trouble raised in Commans

10:18am Tuesday 7th July 2009

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THE plight of a Spa scout group, which is facing a massive water bill hike, has been raised in the Commans.

Concerns about the damage that massively high water charges for voluntary organisations could cause were highlighted on Thursday, July 2 by Mid Worcestershire MP Peter Luff.

The 1st Droitwich Spa scout group expressed its concern to the MP about a likely bill increase from £50 to £1,000 because of run-off charges.

It is a situation that means the group must choose between a much-needed new roof for their scout hut or an increase in subscription charges for the youngsters.

During environment questions in the Commons, Mr Luff raised the case of the town group. The group’s treasurer, David Lockett, had previously written to the MP, who yesterday passed concerns on to both the water regulator, Ofwat, and the water company, Severn Trent.

In the Commons he challenged ministers to help voluntary organisations like the Spa scouts, saying: “Only yesterday, I passed to Ofwat a letter from the treasurer of the 1st Droitwich Spa scout group expressing concern about a likely increase in its water charges. That will force the group to choose between a much-needed new roof for the scout hut or an increase in subs for the 60 beavers, cubs and scouts, which they could ill afford. What comfort can I give the 1st Droitwich Spa scout group?”

The minister, Huw Irranca-Davies, replied: “Give it the comfort that this minister has met both the regulator and United Utilities, another water company facing similar issues, and will continue to put on the pressure.

“I am clear that there should not be disproportionate impacts on groups such as community hall groups, scout associations, churches and so on. The great thing is that United Utilities has applied a moratorium in order to examine that very issue in its area.”

Mr Luff added: “I know many voluntary organisations, including churches, parish hall committees and other youth groups have similar fears. It is vitally important that we help volunteers to serve their communities – these massive water charges could undermine their important work.”

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