The first steps towards developing a new 15-year "local plan" for Welwyn Hatfield have been taken.

An early engagement process has been launched today (September 23), allowing residents and businesses to voice their opinions on the borough's future development.

This consultation will continue until November 4.

The new plan will outline Welwyn Hatfield's growth and development for the next 15 years and beyond.

A new Local Plan website has also been launched  at welwynhatfieldlocalplan.commonplace.is, to facilitate online idea sharing.

Two drop-in events will also be held at the Howard Centre in Welwyn Garden City on October 3 and in Hatfield Library on October 11.

Councillor Rose Grewal, executive member for planning, said: "Our new Local Plan will guide the decisions that we make on the future development of Welwyn Hatfield so that the needs and opportunities of local residents and businesses are met."

The council is keen to involve residents, businesses, and stakeholders from the start to understand shared aspirations and priorities for the borough.

It is seeking views on what matters most to people and what they see as the key challenges and opportunities for Welwyn Hatfield.

Participants can share their thoughts on living and working in the borough, as well as the borough's environment and infrastructure.