United Utilities expects higher profits and revenues

UNITED Utilities is trading in line with expectations and expects revenue and operating profits to be up when it announces full-year figures in May.

The Warrington-based group, which supplies the North West with water and sewerage services, said the higher income reflected the regulated price change for 2013-14.

In a trading update the group said underlying operating profits will be “moderately higher” due to tight cost management.

It added: “United Utilities has made good progress on its regulatory capital investment programme and expects to invest over £800m in its asset base in 2013-14.

“This substantial investment helps to maintain and improve services for customers, delivers further environmental benefits and provides a significant contribution to the regional economy.”