SDLP MLA for Mid Ulster Patsy McGlone has called on the Regional Development Minister to intervene on NI Water’s reclassification of 'test' water meters.

Mr McGlone's call came after a number of households in the constituency received bills in excess of £3,000.

Mr McGlone said: "Following NI Water’s review of water meters, many houses in the Mid Ulster constituency have received bills, some in excess of £3-4000, based upon the reclassification of 'test meters' covering water consumption from 2007 to present.

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"Most that have brought to my attention don’t include the normal allowance for household usage, and many others have been billed despite not being a business or a farm.

"I have asked the Minister to clarify how many water meters were identified as ‘test meters’, how many have been reclassified as chargeable meters and the number of bills issued to these meters.

"There are a number of other questions around NI Water’s reclassification of these ‘test meters’, including the number of bills that have been successfully challenged by the customer, and I will be pressing the Minister for answers."

(CD)