People can soon have their say on a plan that will shape East Hampshire until 2040. 

On Monday East Hampshire District Council begins a public consultation on its draft Local Plan, a document of proposals and policies for housing and employment sites, plus infrastructure for growth, in areas of the district outside the South Downs National Park. It ends on March 4.

Cllr Angela Glass said: “The Local Plan is one of the most important pieces of work we do as a council and has a direct impact on everyone who lives and works in the district. 

“Building new homes contributes to a prosperous and thriving economy. Those homes must be affordable, of the right size, type and tenure and in the right location. 

“The plan will help look after our residents by enabling community facilities that promote healthy lifestyles. It will encourage walking, cycling and use of public transport – better for us all and for the environment – while recognising the importance of private vehicles, especially in rural areas.

"Perhaps most importantly, this plan must limit the impact development has on the environment. By using low carbon materials and building techniques we can limit greenhouse gas emissions during construction and maintain a high environmental performance throughout the lifetime of every new home. 

“This is a crucial blueprint for the future of East Hampshire outside the South Downs National Park and I hope everyone takes part in the consultation. Your voice matters.”

There are drop-in events in Whitehill & Bordon (Forest Community Centre, February 1, 3.30pm to 7.30pm), Alton (Alton Maltings Centre, February 3, 10am to 2pm), Liphook (Millennium Centre, February 7, 3.30pm to 7.30pm), Four Marks (Village Hall, February 19, 3.30pm to 7.30pm) and Horndean (Merchistoun Hall, February 20, 3.30pm to 7.30pm). Comment online at www.easthants.gov.uk/lp-consultation