PEOPLE in the borough are being asked to help shape what Basingstoke and Deane will look like in the future as part of the Horizon 2050 project.

The initiative has the aim to set a shared vision to ensure there are high quality homes, jobs and leisure and community facilities for decades to come in Basingstoke and Deane.

A draft vision has been drawn up with the input of an array of different organisations and residents contributing their ideas through workshops and events to help determine what is important and right for the future of the borough, coupled with research and evidence papers.

Now, residents are being asked to give their views on these to help to shape the development of the final vision, which is due to be adopted by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council and its partners in December.

Anthony Bravo, chair of the Basingstoke Strategic Partnership and Principal of Basingstoke College of Technology (BCoT) said: “It’s an exciting time for the Horizon 2050 project. The new draft vision gives people across the borough an excellent opportunity to see what’s being planned for the future, what thoughts and views have been expressed so far and contribute to the final plan.

"I encourage everyone to get involved in the consultation and think ahead to help shape the development of Basingstoke and Deane for the better.”

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council leader Clive Sanders said: “It’s the hard work, imagination and foresight shown in previous decades that has made Basingstoke and Deane so great today.

"The Horizon 2050 project aims to build on this legacy, showcasing our borough’s established strengths but also helping to secure investment and support for a bright and brilliant future.

“This is a plan made for the community by the community which is why it’s so important for people to have their say on the draft vision. It may seem like a long time away but now is the time to plan for the future and be a part of shaping how our borough will look for our children and our children’s children.”

To view the draft and respond, go to basingstoke.gov.uk/horizon2050

Those requiring a paper response form or to ask further questions can email Horizon2050@Ipsos-MORI.com or Freephone 0800 1413968.

The consultation will run until Sunday, 19 August.