Deputy Matthews wants the States to agree to just one year's increase

The Water Board is bringing forward fresh proposals for a 30% rise over the next three years.

But the plans will face an amendment from Deputy Rhoderick Matthews.

In May, the Water Board was forced to climb down over its demand for a 30% increase in charges next year.

Strong resistance

After strong resistance from the House, it has modified the policy letter to spread the rise over the next three years.

The island's water supply is said to be creaking under the strain after decades of under-investment.

The Board wants to increase its capital programme from �2m to �3m a year to bring it up to standard.

But Deputy Matthews wants the States to agree only to one year's increase.

He says it should be up to the new House elected in 2004 to decide after that.

He agrees water rates need to go up to fund improvements to the supply, but he is worried about the effect on inflation of installing water meters in all homes.