SCOTS are being urged to help shape water services over the next 20 years and more.

They are being asked to speak up at a time when Scottish Water is drawing up a blueprint to provide quality drinking water, protect the environment and protect communities.

The utility giant has launched a major consultation on its plans up to 2040 and wants to know the views of customers on topics such as the reduced risk of flooding and future charges.

Interim chief executive Douglas Millican said: "We are developing plans to ensure water services in Scotland are ready for the future. This is absolutely essential so that we can continue providing high quality drinking water to customers, protect and enhance the environment, support the economy and communities and invest in future water services.

"For example, we are exploring the development of new water connections as a possible way of ensuring we can supply all customers with water – wherever and whenever it is needed.

"While Scotland generally has plentiful supply of fresh drinking water, there can from time to time be challenges such as periods of dry weather. New connections could help us move water around more easily to where it is needed."

The consultation is backed by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon who said: "How we manage this rich natural resource is incredibly important and we'd urge everyone to have their say in Scottish Water's consultation."

A consultation website has been launched at www.scottishwater.co.uk/yourviewscount.

Customers can also have their say by writing to Freepost RTBT-EEXB-EJRT, Scottish Water, Daldowie Office, Uddingston, Glasgow, G71 7RX.

gordon.thomson@ eveningtimes.co.uk