THE structure of Lancaster City Council is set to change and, from February 5 to 9, the council will be heading for the streets in order to offer the public an opportunity to have their say.

Like all local authorities, Lancaster City Council has been asked by the Government to adopt one of three new models: Option 1 - Leader of the Council with Cabinet, Option 2 - Directly elected Mayor with Cabinet and Option 3 - Directly elected Mayor with Council Manager.

Lancaster City Council believes it is vital that the local community has an opportunity to state their views on which of these three options will best suit this area.

Details about the proposals have recently been published in the local press and information has been widely available in dozens of public buildings as well as via the council's hotline on 01524 582905 and website - www.lancaster.gov.uk.

However, in a bid to ensure as many people as possible use this opportunity to have their say Lancaster City Council is mounting a Roadshow and taking the information out to the district's town and rural villages on the following dates: Caton, Victoria Institute, Monday 5 February, 2pm to 7pm Carnforth, Civic Hall. Tuesday 6 February, 2pm to 7pm Morecambe, Arndale Centre, Thursday 8th February, 10am to 5.30pm Lancaster, Marketgate, Friday 9th February, 10am to 5.30pm

Commenting on the roadshows, Roger Muckle, Lancaster City Council's Corporate Director of Central Services said: "The city council's roadshows are one of a number of opportunities for the district's taxpayers to be at the forefront of changes in local democracy as we move towards a local government that is more relevant, accountable and responsive to local people.

"Once views have been received and it becomes clear which the preferred option is for this District, the City Council will prepare a detailed working model for implementation.

"It is hoped that the council can implement its new political management structure ahead of the Government's timescale and have the system operational by May 2001.

He added: "It is hoped that the changes will bring quicker and easier to understand decision making, greater accountability and more community involvement but it is important that you take part now and let us know your views!"