Profits flow at United Utilities

Water group United Utilities (UU) has posted strong increases in both turnover and pre-tax profits in its half-year figures.

UU, which provides water and wastewater services across the north west of England, also reported it remains on track to deliver more than £2bn of capital investment during the year.

Group turnover rose from £1.309bn in 2025 to £1.462bn, while pre-tax profits went up from £325.3m to £539.2m in the six-month period to September 30, 2026.

UU said it was making 'strong progress' on its Big North West Upgrade programme, with more than 1,000 projects under way across the region, supporting 30,000 jobs.

Louise Beardmore, chief executive officer, said the capital investment being delivered this year was part of its largest ever five-year programme.

She said: “This is on track and fully funded, supported by our robust financial performance and the £800m of new equity we raised in April from UK and international investors.  

“We are delivering better outcomes for the environment, with zero serious pollution incidents this year and improved treatment works performance.

“Building on the strong progress already made, we are increasing the scale and pace of activity to drive down leakage.

“We continue to engage constructively with Ofwat to enable additional investment to unlock new homes and industrial development, supporting the government’s growth priorities across the region.” 

The group has declared an interim dividend of 18.51p, in line with policy.