A DOUBLE whammy could be on the cards for householders in Warrington with United Utilities outlining regeneration proposals which might see water bills skyrocket.

Still reeling from a hefty 11 per cent increase in council tax bills, announced in April, householders have been warned that water charges could rise by 30 per cent over the next five years.

The Great Sankey-based utility giant has defended its new £3.8 billion business plan from 2005 to 2010, which they say would help it meet strict European drinking water regulations, tackle flooding hotspots and deliver reliable water services.

But consumer watchdogs have warned against making customers bear the brunt of the water companies' investment programmes.

Maurice Terry, chairman of campaign group WaterVoice, said: "Customers want reliable and good quality water and sewerage services and know these have to be paid for.

"Customers are also prepared to contribute to the costs of improving and protecting the water environment.

"But excessive increases in water bills are simply unacceptable and risk turning customers against the water industry, the environment and the Government."

An average bill, under figures released by industry representative body Water UK, would rise by £15 on top of inflation annually for the next five years, warns WaterVoice.

United Utilities chiefs say they have also asked shareholders to pay their way, through a £1 billion rights issue, reported by Guardian Business last month.

Chief executive John Roberts said: "Funding the future investment needed to meet the level of improvements Government has said may be required could have a big impact on our customers' bills."

He said £300 million of operating cost savings were being made already. UU has calculated the increases as 12 per cent above inflation.

Regulator Ofwat will have the final say on bill levels and is not expected to report back with their findings until next year.