PENDLE people are being encouraged to get more involved in the future of the borough.

The council's planning officers are touring the borough's libraries to give residents the chance to have their say on how they would like to become involved and kept informed about planning matters.

The consultation follows the introduction of new laws which require communities to be consulted about applications in their area.

Over the next few weeks council chiefs will be staging roadshows and the findings will form how the authority contacts residents about planning applications.

Coun John David, executive member for planning, said: "Officers will be out to help explain the new planning process to people and to ensure local residents really get involved in what happens to Pendle in the years to come.

"What we're asking people to do is to tell us how they would like to be involved.

"This consultation will be very important when we're putting together the documents and policies that will determine how we plan for Pendle's future."

For information call John Halton, chief planning officer, on 01282 661330.