Despite a decline in output and a slow-down of growth in construction sector activity, construction companies’ confidence about the future has strengthened markedly to reach an eight-month high, according to a new survey of the sector.

Thames Water has lowered a state-of-the-art tunnelling machine into position 20 metres below ground, as part of a £190m project to extend one of Europe's largest sewage treatment works.

Water industry regulator Ofwat said this morning that the average household water and sewerage bill in England and Wales is forecast to increase by 5.7%, or about £20 - above the current inflation rate of 5.2%.

The latest response by water regulator Ofwat on social tariff guidance has highlighted the increasingly complexity of the requirement for water companies to consult with stakeholders on the price setting process and their forthcoming AMP6 Business Plans.

Yorkshire Water is embarking on a multi-million pound project to create the UK's first energy neutral urban sewage plant.

Head of the Environment Agency Lord Chris Smith has described Thames Water’s proposed “ super-sewer” as a necessity, not an option.

Latest statistics show that only just over one fifth (22%) of rivers monitored under the Water Framework Directive were of at least a ‘good’ standard in 2010.