A ‘NEIGHBOURHOOD’ plan is to be drawn up for Clayton-le-Moors and Altham.

The towns’ community development board set up a neighbouring planning forum with permission from Hyndburn Council.

Local residents have been given more power over their communities under the government’s localism bill - which devolved power from central and local government to neighbourhoods.

Leader of Hyndburn Council, Coun Miles Parkinson, said: “The plan is led by local people with stakeholders, whether it’s businesses or residents, within that community.

“It’s about empowering that community to make sure the next planning document contains their views.

“And that’s whether it’s about housing, business, retail, school provisions or anything else.”

Five key themes have been identified including housing, transport, schools, health and well-being and the local environment.

Residents have been asked to get involved by answering a questionnaire which is being delivered to their homes and by meeting at the Arthur Wilson Centre, Clayton-le-Moors, from 12pm to 7pm on September 19.

Alternatively, contact the forum on 07966 741877 or e-mail the address which is claytonandalthamtownplan@hotmail.co.uk.