Merton Council wants to hear from residents about what facilities they think their borough needs and what it should look like in the future.

As part of the preparation of a Local Development Framework (LDF), the Council is seeking feedback from residents about how they wish to be contacted about new planning policy and any future planning applications.

The LDF replaces the Council’s existing Unitary Development Plan and will guide development in the borough for the next 10 years. As part of the document, a Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) will set out how Merton Council plans to engage with residents while preparing the LDF and how they can expect to be consulted on future planning applications.

Councillor Russell Makin, Cabinet Member for Planning and Regeneration said:

“This is an opportunity for residents to influence the future of Merton and tell us what facilities they would like to see.

“As a partner in the development of the borough, you hold the destiny of Merton in your hands. The success of this lies in your involvement.”

A questionnaire is available for residents to express if they would like to assist in developing the LDF and how they would like to be kept informed on its progress. Feedback received will help the Council plan appropriate ways of involving the community.

To obtain a copy of the questionnaire, visit http://www.merton.gov.uk where it can be downloaded and returned by email to justask@merton.gov.uk. A copy of the questionnaire with a prepaid envelope can also be sent upon request by calling Manmohan Dayal, Merton Council’s Community Engagement Officer on 020 8545 4847.

All completed questionnaires should be returned by Monday 3 January 2005.

ENDS.