The number of visitors to our website increased by 15 per cent during 2010-11 with more than 650,000 people viewing our pages over 5.7 million times.

During our annual billing period, visitor numbers rose by more than 30 per cent, with customers going online to pay bills, make changes to their accounts and find out more information.

The use of online forms by our business and domestic customers also increased, peaking at more than 14,300 in March, 2011.

New features and pages included a website dedicated to our metering programme as we install water meters for the majority of our customers between 2010 and 2015. The site includes interactive guides on water and energy use, a timetable and map for meter installations, question and answer section, films and useful information.

We set up an individual needs microsite for customers struggling to pay their water bills or who have extra needs or concerns. The site provides information on services we offer, ranging from what to do if you are having difficulty paying your bill to registering special requirements.

An online media centre was also launched aimed at journalists in the region. The ‘virtual press office’ includes news and statements, briefings on key issues and downloadable photos and audio clips.