Despite "exceptionally high" rainfall during the year, three of four sewer flooding targets were met as bosses said they acknowledged public concern about the environmental impact of storm overflows. Pointing to 2023's very wet weather, the group said there had been a greater number of storm overflow spills reported across the industry than in the previous year and that its own £1bn of investment planned between 2025-2030 aimed to prevent spills. In July, Ofwat issued its draft determination for the 2025-2030 period, allowing Northumbrian Water Group to raise bills from £415 to £460, excluding inflation, and invest £5.7bn - more than £2.2bn over its current permitted level.