Severn Trent is set to create 440 new jobs as part of a £415 million investment project.

The company plans to install 870 miles of new water pipes across the Midlands, the largest project in the UK's water network for over a decade.

In Worcestershire and Gloucestershire, £63 million will be invested to deliver 155 miles of pipes and create 49 new jobs.

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The new pipes, made from modern materials, are expected to last up to 100 years, reducing leaks, improving water quality, and ensuring a more reliable supply.

The water company will begin recruitment this month for the hundreds of new team members needed to replace the old pipes by 2030.

Liv Garfield, the company's CEO, said: "This is a hugely ambitious project – one of the largest of its kind in decades.

"We are pleased to be providing a massive boost to jobs, as well as laying miles of new water pipes across the region which will allow customers to enjoy the best water quality for years to come.

"Upgrading our pipes isn’t just about making improvements today; it’s about creating a more secure water future and investing in our communities for generations to come.

"We’re building a brand-new team to make this happen and we’re proud to welcome so many new people into the Severn Trent family in the next year."

The programme of water pipe renewal is set to safeguard water supplies for millions of customers, providing a more resilient water supply to maintain the best water quality for years to come.

The company aims to cut down on water leaks by 16 per cent by 2030 and by 50 per cent by 2045.

The company also plans to install smart water meters in areas where pipes are being upgraded, helping customers track usage and save money on bills.

The company's investment programme is part of its multibillion investment plan to benefit homes and businesses across the region for decades to come.

By updating old infrastructure now, costly repairs can be avoided, and an improving modern water system means fewer supply interruptions.