PEOPLE are being urged to seize the chance to help shape the future of their community.

Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council is looking at putting together a Neighbourhood Plan.

Next month it will be holding a launch event where people can learn more about what is involved.

Members are keen for as many residents as possible to attend so that the whole community can help shape the document.

A number of places in Suffolk are looking at the possibility of implementing a Neighbourhood Plan, which has been made possible because of new planning powers handed to town and parish councils by the Government.

The aim is to allow local people to have more of an influence over what happens in their communities over the next 15 or so years.

The document can cover everything from housing, employment and transport through to parking, town centre improvements, recreation and health.

Future planning applications will be judged against the plan and it will therefore influence whether they are approved or refused.

Terry Hodgson, chairman of Leiston-cum-Sizewell Town Council, said they wanted to hear from as many people as possible.

“This is a real chance for people to shape the future of the community,” he said.

“Although the project will be led by the town council it is very much the people of Leiston’s plan.

“Without the involvement of residents, businesses, community groups and landowners we don’t have anything.

“I would urge anyone interested to come along. As well as being a chance to ask questions and register an interest in getting involved it will also be an opportunity to shape the issues that people feel passionate about.”

The launch meeting is being held on Tuesday, October 9 at the community centre in King Georges Avenue.