FROM building new reservoirs and water reuse schemes to further reducing leaks and helping customers manage their own water use, South East Water wants to hear your views on how clean, fresh tap water should be kept flowing for future generations.

Taking into account changing weather patterns over the next 60 years, coupled with a 53 per cent predicted increase in population within its supply area, the company has published its draft water resources management plan which puts forward proposals for how those challenges could be overcome.

Over the next two months, customers across Hampshire and Surrey have the chance to view the proposals, submit comments, and shape the company’s final plan which will be published later this year.

The proposals include new reservoirs, water re-use schemes, water treatment improvements and regional water transfer schemes.In addition, South East Water has pledged to invest in new technology to upgrade its water-treatment works, reduce leaks even further and expand its award-winning programme which helps customers control their own water use.

These plans build on the successful initiatives of the previous plan, published in 2014, which included the introduction of the customer metering programme and investing more than £7million per year in leak detection and repair.

Over the past five years this investment has resulted in 90 per cent of leaks being fixed within 48 hours, reducing leaks by four per cent over the period.

Longer term, proposals include looking at desalination – where salt water is made drinkable – and further reservoirs across the South-East.

Lee Dance, head of water resources at South East Water, said: “We are looking far into the future, right to 2080, to make sure we have a secure and resilient water supply for homes and businesses, while also balancing the needs of the environment and keeping customers’ bills down.

“The draft plan represents a £1billion investment in water supply infrastructure and has been developed with input from customers, communities, other water suppliers and our stakeholders.

“It takes into account forecasts of future population and housing growth as well as the uncertainty of climate change.

“We’re now keen to hear your views on the proposals and really shape our final plan.

“The more people we hear from the more thoughts and ideas we can incorporate to really ensure that you get the water supply you want in the future.

”As part of its public consultation, customers will be able to speak directly to South East Water and comment on the plans at a series of community exhibitions in those areas where large investment projects are planned.”

The draft plan is also available to view online at southeastwater.co.uk/yourwateryoursay where feedback can also be submitted.

The public consultation closes on May 21.