CUSTOMERS of South West Water are being asked this week whether they would like a £20 credit on their bill or £20 worth of shares in parent company Pennon Group plc.

The utility company has decided to share £20 million with its customers after outperforming its last business plan over the last five years.

Customers are also being invited to have more say in how the business is run.  From January 2021 they’ll be able to take part in panel meetings and quiz directors on progress against plans.

The changes are part of an initiative called WaterShare+ to give customers more ownership and say in the business.

Susan Davy, Pennon Group Chief Executive, said: “This innovative scheme is about doing the right thing, ensuring our customers remain at the heart of our service and success. Driven by our values and guided by what customers want, we hope WaterShare+ will build new levels of trust and transparency.

South West Water says that as part of its business plan up to 2025, it will be lowering bills, providing additional support for those most in need, and making more than £1 billion investment to improve services, including the biggest environmental improvement programme for 15 years.