CHANNEL Chamber of Commerce is helping businesses to hold back the tide of rising water costs, which will go up by an average 11.8 per cent during 2005/6.

According to figures released by the water regulator OFWAT, companies will also face further increases of around nine per cent (before inflation) between 2006 and 2010.

Ray Johnson, Chamber chairman, said: “There is scope for some companies to cut their water costs through eliminating areas of waste and excessive consumption.

"Our 'Chamber Utilities' team can advise on total water management and leak detection, as well as ensuring that users optimise efficiency by having the right meter size.

"We can also help organisations to identify any anomalies in their water liability – helping to recover any overcharges dating back over a six year period. This can amount to several thousands of pounds.

"Soaring utilities bills are a real competitive threat to business and we will do everything we can to help firms reduce these costs - by sorting out contract problems, such as overcharging, identifying more competitive energy deals, and assisting businesses to reduce consumption of both energy and water."

The Chamber’s water management service is delivered in partnership with independent utility management company Utility Auditing Ltd.

For more information contact Channel Chamber on 01303 270022 or visit www.channelchamber.co.uk.