AN initiative aimed at allowing Burnley residents to have their say about local planning issues has been launched to help make communities a better place to live in.

The Community Alliance, Piccadilly Area Residents' Association and Caring Accrington Road Residents have organised an open day aimed at encouraging local residents to participate in planning for the areas in which they live.

The initiative, funded by the Single Regeneration Budget, was launched in Burnley Wood and Accrington Road. Residents and ward councillors, together with representatives from some local agencies, have met regularly during the past two months to decide what they would like to happen at the event.

Maureen Craig, chairman of the Community Alliance, explained the thinking behind the event.

She said: "This is a very important event for the Trinity area and the residents need to be a part of identifying the needs and priorities, thereby improving the neighbourhood they live in.

"Everyone is encouraged to attend the event and to bring their ideas and enjoy what is going to be an entertaining and informative day."

The day is expected to be a fun-filled event for all the family with food, local groups Piccadilly Poppers and Brunshaw Twirlers, and a bouncy castle to keep youngsters occupied.

There will also be local agency stands to lend advice.

Large scale maps of the area will also be provided to enable residents to participate in planning for the future of their areas.

Ben Hughes, area worker for the Community Alliance, said: "These events are to be held across all different areas in Burnley in the future.

"The aim is to encourage people to get involved in their local planning for their neighbourhoods. We want to improve communications between agencies and residents to let people know what is available to them."

The event will take place on Saturday, October 19, at Holy Trinity School, Every Street, Burnley which is to be opened at noon by the Mayor of Burnley, Coun Gordon Birtwistle.