RESIDENTS in Wyre Forest have been urged to have their say in shaping the future of the district in the next decade.

Wyre Forest District Council is undertaking a review of its local plan which will set the framework for planning decisions on housing, industry, shopping and leisure development for the next 10 years.

Council planning and environment head Jake Berriman stressed the review was an important mechanism for people to contribute to their area's future.

He said: "This is your plan and we will need your views - please make this opportunity count."

Issues to be considered include identifying land for 800 houses and the district's employment needs, reducing the need to travel, particularly by car and providing an adequate range of shops for residents.

The plan is for major development sites to be identified in Kidderminster and Stourport which have better public transport than Bewdley.

Mr Berriman said: "I am keen to involve local people from the outset.

"We want to work in partnership with residents, businesses and interest groups to take Wyre Forest forward to 2011.

"It is essential that, together, we create a plan which seeks to work towards sustainable development and so ensures a better quality of life for current and future generations."

The planning chief explained the local plan was being reviewed because the current plan was becoming out of date.

Worcestershire County Council has prepared a new structure plan, which sets out an overall development strategy for the county up to 2011.

And the district council has to reflect the emphasis placed on sustainable development in the revised National Planning Policy.

The first round of public consultation lasts until October 6.

A free summary paper is available in libraries and council offices. People can also view copies of the main consultation paper at these locations too.

Council officers will also be available to give short presentations to interested groups.

There will be further opportunities for the public to voice its opinion as the plan progresses, particularly when the authority formulates more specific proposals.

The plan is expected to be adopted by the end of 2003.

For more details call 01562 732520 or 01562 732557.