One of the country’s biggest water suppliers will face questions from Marlow residents about how the company will cope with a growing population in the area.

Thames Water will be holding an open event at Marlow Rugby Union Club on May 25 to give residents a chance to find out more about key issues affecting the area including climate change and an increasing population – both of which increase the risk of flooding.

They will also answer questions on their efforts to tackle flooding, stop pollution and reduce odour from Little Marlow Sewage Works.

Concerns were recently raised by district councillors about how the Little Marlow site would cope with an increase in the population that is planned as part of the Wycombe District Local Plan.

Visitors will have the opportunity to speak to senior managers as well as the teams that look after their water supply and waste water, and make suggestions on how the company can improve services now and for future generations.

Thames Water’s Andrew Popple, who will be leading the open forum, said: “Marlow has been identified for some significant developments in the coming years, so it’s natural our customers want to know how we intend to tackle increased demand for clean water and treat the additional wastewater flows.

“When planning for the future we have to take into account a number of factors but ultimately it will be what’s best for our customers and the environment that matter the most.

“It’s a huge challenge to get the balance right and meet everyone’s needs which is why hearing from our customers direct is an essential part of deciding what our future investment priorities should be.”

By 2040 there will be up to three million more people – more than the current population of Greater Manchester – living in the Thames Water region.

With a third more water used today than 30 years ago and energy prices set to rise, the company says it is determined to speak to as many people as possible to get its long term strategy water-tight.

The open forum in Marlow is one of nine events taking place across the Thames Water region throughout May and June.

Anyone unable to attend a forum can still join the conversation by visiting thameswater.co.uk/yourwaterfuture and taking part in the interactive tool, sending feedback by email to consultations@thameswater.co.uk or using #yourwaterfuture and @thameswater on social media.

Register for the Marlow event, which is free and open from 6pm to 8.30pm on Thursday, May 25, at www.thameswater.co.uk/yourwaterfuture.