RESIDENTS in Bacup and Stacksteads are to be consulted on a master plan that will help shape the towns over the next 15 years.

Rossendale Council has commissioned the detailed plan to look at future developments.

A team of consultants will now be looking at problems with the housing market and economic decline of the towns, with the help of local people.

The consultation is part of the East Lancashire Housing Market Renewal initiative, but the issues which need to be addressed are much more wide-ranging than just housing.

People will be asked for their views on a range of issues, including the local economy, health, education, community facilities, and how to tackle crime.

Bill Halsall, who is leading the team of consultants, said: "We are delighted to be back in Bacup and Stacksteads and look forward to working with the local community to deliver a visionary and aspirational master plan."

The leader of the council, Coun Peter Steen said: "It's vital that local people are involved and their views will influence government investment in their towns through the multi-million Pathfinder funding which has been earmarked for East Lancashire.

"The master plan will give us a comprehensive regeneration framework to demonstrate what our needs are and provide us with a unique opportunity to make a significant difference to the social, physical and economic regeneration of Bacup and Stacksteads."

A range of events and workshops will also be organised in the next few months, which will allow local people to get involved in planning and re-modelling their areas.