HELP shape the future of our town by letting us know what you think. That s the invitation to residents from Stevenage Borough Council. It is asking for the views of residents and local businesses on its planning strategy for the town. The council is pr

HELP shape the future of our town by letting us know what you think.

That's the invitation to residents from Stevenage Borough Council.

It is asking for the views of residents and local businesses on its planning strategy for the town.

The council is preparing new, short separate plans for different parts of Stevenage. Together these make up the Local Development Framework (LDF) which will eventually replace the existing District Plan.

The public is being asked to say what it thinks between next Monday, June 19, and July 28.

There are four documents open for comment:

* The Core Strategy which sets out a vision for Stevenage until 2021 and policies to determine planning applications. It covers issues such as jobs, education, the town centre, affordable housing, the environment, wildlife, open spaces, gypsy sites, cemeteries and transport.

* Site Specific Policies which spotlight particular areas of land, for example sites for housing or sites of significant local interest. This covers issues such as neighbourhood centres, school sites and conservation areas.

* The Gunnels Wood Area Action Plan which focuses on regeneration and growth in the employment area. This covers issues such as the future of Gunnels Wood, jobs, landscaping, services for employees and transport.

* The Old Town Area Action Plan which covers issues such as the environment, new housing sites, conservation areas, open spaces and the role of pubs in the High Street.

Views expressed will go towards a more detailed consultation document in 2007.

From Monday, the documents can be seen on the council's website - stevenage.gov.uk - in town libraries and in Daneshill House reception.

The council will also send information to around 500 businesses, organisations and individuals currently on its list of people who have taken part in previous consultation. To be added to the list, contact the planning policy team on 01438 242823, textphone 01438 242555 or email planningpolicy@stevenage.gov.uk

Executive councillor for economic regeneration John Gardner said: "Participation from local people in the planning system is crucial if Stevenage is to evolve in a way that meets their needs. I look forward to receiving residents' comments about these documents.