The cost of fixing the nation's sewage system to stop discharges into rivers, streams and the sea should not fall onto the shoulders of families who are already struggling with the cost of living.
That was the word from Northumberland Labour leader Coun Scott Dickinson following warnings water bills would need to go up to solve the issue.
It comes after Northumbrian Water confirmed bills would need to rise to pay for a £1.7 billion environmental programme to stop storm overflow spills.
