Water chiefs are due to spend £1 billion on a host of improvements over the next few years - as the population is set to soar by more than 50%.

South East Water is investing in projects in Kent including a new reservoir at Broad Oak, Canterbury, a water re-use scheme in Aylesford and a new water treatment works.

In nearby East Sussex there are plans to develop a water reuse scheme on the River Ouse and a new reservoir.

The schemes have been suggested as part of the company's look ahead at what will be needed in the area in the next 60 years amid an expected 53% rise in the population.

Bosses are now asking for residents to get in touch with their thoughts on the plans as a 12-week consultation opens.

Head of water resources at South East Water, Lee Dance, 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 £1 billion 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."

Customers will be able to speak to staff from South East Water and comment on the plans at public exhibitions.

They will be held in:

• King's Studio, Aylesford Community Centre, Forstal Road, Aylesford, Maidstone, on Tuesday, March 20, from 12pm until 8pm.
• Tyler's Kiln, Hackington Road, Tyler Hill, Canterbury, on Monday, April 23, from 2.30pm until 8pm.
• Broad Oak Village Hall, Shallock Road, Broad Oak, Canterbury, on Tuesday, April 24, from 12pm until 8pm.
• Sturry Social Centre, Mill Road, Sturry, Canterbury, on Thursday, April 26, from 12.30pm until 8pm.

You can also share your feedback by going to the water firm's "have your say" page.