SWINDON could face shortages due to its high demand for water.
Bosses warn this could spell hosepipe bans and water restrictions for the town in years to come.
In an effort to curb such action, Thames Water has published an action plan to try to prevent future water shortages.
The plan points to Swindon as being similar to London and Oxfordshire in that the town is "seriously water stressed".
Pressures on water supplies due to climate change is increased in Swindon due to its rapidly increasing population.
While this year above average spring rainfall means there is unlikely to be a hosepipe ban this year, Thames Water cannot rule them out in the future.
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Don Sharples, a spokesman for Thames Water, said: "We are expecting the populations of Swindon and Oxfordshire to grow by 120,000 in the next 25 years.
"This and climate change are key points when it comes to water demands.
"Swindon actually has one of the highest rates of water meters at 45 per cent - which is encouraging.
"Our aim is that it will grow to 93 per cent by 2020.
"It's not only a fairer way to charge people but also to be more efficient with people using 10 per cent less water if they have a meter fixed.
"The little things also make a difference. Using a watering can rather than a hose, having a shower rather than a bath and turning off taps when you're brushing your teeth."
He added: "It's unlikely we will have a hosepipe ban this summer as in March and April we had above average rainfall."
David Owens, Thames Water chief executive said:"The long and difficult drought we experienced in 2005 and 2006 brought home to all of us that we cannot be complacent about our water supplies.
"We're working hard to reduce the risk of hosepipe bans or more severe restrictions, and making plans now to ensure that we are able to provide enough water to meet future needs. A big part of our plans will be focused on continuing to reduce leakage."
Resident Linda Noakes, from Peregrine Close, in Covingham, was made homeless when her home was hit by the floods last July.
Although she welcomed the plans she wanted Thames Water to focus its attention on flood prevention.
"The lack of water isn't an issue for me personally," she said.
"Having a hosepipe ban is not the end of the world.
"It's having too much water all at once that is the problem.
"I would rather they look at the basics like flowing drains to stop the flooding happening again."
Customers are urged to find out more and take part in the 16-week public consultation, which launches today.
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