A PUBLIC consultation has been launched to give residents a say over Maldon's planning blueprint for the future.

Maldon District Council's Statement of Community Involvement sets out how the council will engage with residents, businesses and other interested parties in the forthcoming review of the district's Local Plan.

It also details how the council will involve the community when considering planning applications and major proposals for development.

A spokesman said: "The planning system affects all communities and individuals in one way or another.

"It is therefore crucial that local people are given the ability to understand the planning process and the opportunity to participate in decision-making processes, offering their ideas and influencing future development in the district.

"We are now seeking views on the SCI and what consultation will take place when we are developing and reviewing our planning documents and determining planning applications."

Council leader Wendy Stamp added: “The Statement of Community Involvement will be used as a framework for consultation and engagement by the council.

"It will inform and help guide our approach to consultation for the production of planning policy documents and planning applications.

"I would encourage residents and businesses to give us their views.”

The council adopted the first Statement of Community Involvement in 2007 and updates have been made since.

The latest draft is the third version.

It also provides information on what support the council can give to communities preparing neighbourhood plans or neighbourhood development orders.

The consultation will run until July 29.

You can read the draft document and give feedback by visiting maldon.gov.uk/consultations.