A LOCAL watchdog is concerned about the impact that rising water and sewage bills will have on those already facing financial difficulties.

WaterVoice North West is warning customers to expect an increase in their payments when bills arrive at their homes soon. The bill for the average household without a water meter is rising to £300, an increase of seven per cent or £20.

A family of three on a water meter, says WaterVoice, can expect to see their bills rise by around nine per cent or £33 from April.

These increases follow Ofwat's recent review of water and sewerage price limits for the next five years. The need to maintain the current network and the Government's requirement for higher environmental and drinking water quality standards mean United Utilities must invest a further £2.9 billion during the period.

To finance this, the regulator has allowed the company to increase its charges by around 20 per cent in real terms by 2010.

Maurice Terry, WaterVoice North West chairman, said: "Targeted investment to ensure the maintenance of good quality water and sewerage services is essential. However, the fact remains that there is no effective support from Government for those on low and fixed incomes who will not be able to absorb such price rises.

"We would encourage customers who face difficulties to contact their company as soon as they are aware of a problem."