Prices in the North West could rise by more than 40%

UK water companies published details of their business plans on Friday.

United Utilities (UU) has announced a sharp rise of almost 40%, which will take the average household bill from �255 to �356 by 2009.

The Government and the water regulator, Ofwat, are to consider the plans in December, before deciding whether or not to approve them.

Consumer groups have attacked the proposals, which they say will hit poorest customers the hardest.

Water UK, which represents suppliers, say the water companies need to raise �22bn to fund maintenance work and improvements.

Severn Trent is also forecasting a large price rise, with the average bill going from �210 to �267.

The figure for Anglian Water is set to go up by �47 to �330.