If meters were installed in every home using mains water it would presumably dramatically reduce the amount used. The cost would be huge but it would generate employment and would be a one off expense.
The income would also be huge which could be then used to repair our leaking mains system and update sewage treatment plants. I am assuming the only reason water charges have never been introduced is due to political cowardice. People in rural areas who have to put in their own wells and sewage systems do so at a cost of at least 10k and suffer the annual cost of maintaining them. Why should urban dwellers have this for free?
Water charges would ensure homeowners used it responsibly and most importantly would shut off the supply when vacating houses, schools and factories over Christmas and ensured their pipes and attics were protected.
The income would also be huge which could be then used to repair our leaking mains system and update sewage treatment plants. I am assuming the only reason water charges have never been introduced is due to political cowardice. People in rural areas who have to put in their own wells and sewage systems do so at a cost of at least 10k and suffer the annual cost of maintaining them. Why should urban dwellers have this for free?
Water charges would ensure homeowners used it responsibly and most importantly would shut off the supply when vacating houses, schools and factories over Christmas and ensured their pipes and attics were protected.