Northumbrian Water Group’s investment programme is set to generate a “ripple effect” worth an additional £2.1 billion in the local economy, according to the utility firm.
The company has published a new report, entitled Our Contribution, which uses PwC’s total impact measurement and management framework to help measure its impact on society, the natural world, the economy and its employees.
It highlights that Northumbrian Water is set to invest more than £3 billion over the next five years into its regional economies.
The report also states the group has a network of more than 2,000 supply chain partners, many of whom are based in its regions.
The group itself directly employs more than 3,000 people in more than 60 offices across its operational areas and the spending power from its staff accounts for £91.5 million, which is mostly retained within the regions.
The company estimates that for every £100 million it spends and invests in the North West, around £80 million is additionally generated in the regional economy.
Over the next five years, Northumbrian Water claim this “ripple effect” could be worth up to £2.1 billion to the North of England’s economy.
The report also highlights how Northumbrian Water has supported 1,273 community and charity groups and raised more than £204,000 for WaterAid.
More than half a million (561,198) people have visited the utility firm’s historical and ecological sites, while more than half of staff (53 per cent) have volunteered to support various environmental and community projects.
“The nature of our business means that we have a massive influence and dependency on the natural environment, the economy and the communities we serve,” said chief executive, Heidi Mottram.
“We embrace this responsibility and recognise that sustainable growth is critical to our business resilience and continued success.
“This is reflected in our vision to be the national leader in the provision of sustainable water and waste water services,” added Mottram.