Water rates face big rise

Deputy Matthews wanted to restrict the rise to 10%

Water rates in Guernsey are to go up by 30% over the next three years.

The States agreed to the rise at their sitting on Friday.

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

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

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

'Inflationary' increases

The proposals faced amendment from Deputy Rhoderick Matthews, who thought charges should be restricted to only 10%, plus an annual retail price index rise.

He thought a 30% increase was too much.

"Whatever investment is needed to achieve appropriate water quality will be met, however it will eventually be funded," he told the House.

"The increases proposed are inflationary and hugely unpopular with almost everyone.

"Let's not commit to more than we need to now."