Ofwat today began a consultation into plans by Independent Water Networks Limited (IWN) to provide water services to a third new development in the county.

The regulator is proposing to grant an inset appointment to IWN, which will allow it to supply water to a development of 162 homes at Great Billing Way, near Northampton. As the development is in Anglian Water’s area of appointment, Ofwat is seeking views on its proposal to allow a change of supplier for the site.

If it gets the go-ahead, customers at the site will benefit – IWN is proposing to charge its customers 5% less per cubic metre of water supplied than Anglian Water would charge. IWN will be required to provide the same level of customer service as other water and sewerage companies. Anglian Water will provide the sewerage service.

Ofwat has previously granted IWN inset appointments for two developments in Corby, at Long Croft Road and Priors Hall.

Ofwat is inviting comments from all parties on our proposal. Comments must be submitted to Ofwat by 1 July 2008.