YOUNGSTERS are being invited to help create a lasting legacy by coming up with innovative ideas for the development of new communities at Manydown.

During a series of workshops, people aged between 13 to 21-yearolds are being asked to help with creating new public street furniture for Manydown - it could be funky seating or a brightly coloured bike shelter, or even a piece of public art.

The workshops, which will run from 10am to 3.30pm every day from Monday, August 7 to Thursday, August 10, will give participants the opportunity to work alongside experts in urban design and planning places and so will give a valuable insight into architecture, buildings, art and green spaces.

Groups of young people from local schools have already been involved in planning for the future of Manydown, with regular engagement sessions running since January 2016 with 30 pupils from eight local schools. Their comments and suggestions have been considered in putting together the outline planning application for the site which is joint owned by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (BDBC) and Hampshire County Council.

Cabinet member for property and development at BDBC, Cllr John Izett said: “These summer workshops are an exciting opportunity for young people to get involved in creating something unique that will bring life, individuality and a sense of fun to the new community.

“Manydown aims to be one of the best designed and thought out new housing developments in the UK. We have already drawn many ideas for it from local residents of all ages through the many stages of consultation.

“By consulting local young people to help with the urban design elements, we can look forward to seeing some very special street features which will be used and enjoyed by all residents in the future.”

Outline planning permission for the new development of over 3,000 new homes at Manydown, aims to help to meet the borough’s future housing needs.

Businesses, shops and community facilities, two new primary schools and land for a new secondary school are included in the application.

To find out more about the workshops visit manydownbasingstoke.co.uk/young-opinions/ activities.