Residents in the New Forest are set to receive a significant water bill discount after the council has teamed up with Southern Water.

The New Forest District Council has partnered with Southern Water to provide the discount for residents who receive council tax support.

Beginning April 1, 2025, Forest residents will automatically benefit from a reduced water tariff, resulting in a 45 per cent discount on their water bills.

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Residents will not need to apply separately for the discount, as the council will inform Southern Water directly of those receiving council tax support.

Southern Water will then contact the customers to confirm they are on the lower tariff.

This initiative is aimed at easing the financial burden on residents who need it most.

By automatically adjusting the tariffs for those already receiving council tax support, the council said that eligible residents receive the discount without any additional administrative hurdles.