Residents in Newtown and surrounding areas are set to face a significant increase in their utility bills, with prices rising by £71 per year.

Hafren Dyfrdwy, the company responsible for providing water services in much of northern Powys, will be implementing the highest increase for its customers.

Bills are set to soar by a staggering 19 percent, leaving residents in the Welshpool, Newtown, Llanidloes, Llanfyllin, and Knighton areas facing a jump from £362 in 2023/2024 to £433 in 2024/2025.

This news comes at a time when the cost-of-living crisis in the UK continues to deeply impact millions of residents. Such a substantial increase in water bills will undoubtedly put further strain on households already struggling to make ends meet.

The Liberal Democrats in Powys have joined forces with frustrated residents, calling for this "disgraceful" hike to be scrapped immediately. They argue that there should be no price rises until water firms address the matter of insulting overseas dividends and executive bonuses.