A project to help consumers reduce water bills by fitting free bathroom gadgets has been launched in Brighton.

Southern Water will visit nearly 6,000 homes in the next four years to fit more efficient taps, shower heads and flush mechanisms for free. This is expected to help each house cut up to £88 off an average annual bill of £420.

In partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council, the Consumer Council for Water and University of Sussex, the company will also perform water usage checks and provide information about better deals.

The programme is aimed at people who use too much water and struggle to pay their bills, though anyone can request a visit.

Ben Earl, Water Efficiency Manager at Southern Water said: “A home visit could cut water use by up to 50 litres per person per day. When you are paying for what you use this means real, tangible savings. Looking at the bigger picture, we have a duty to help customers pay their water bills and avoid debt. We also have environmental responsibilities and must always look for new ways to protect water sources.”

If successful, the project will be launched in other areas supplied by Southern Water.