THOUSANDS of Lancashire firms are to be asked about their future to help plan for the new millennium.

Planners want to know of firms' plans to move to new sites, where they might want to relocate to and what sort of site they would consider.

The survey of 7,000 businesses in the county is being carried out by the joint advisory committee which is made up of groups including local authorities, East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and East Lancashire Partnership.

"This survey will be very important in shaping planning policies," said County Coun George Slynn, chairman of the joint advisory committee for strategic planning.

"It will help us to understand the needs of businesses and take them into account when we make decisions on strategic planning issues.

"I would urge any business that receives a copy of the questionnaire to take the time to complete and return it so we have a true picture of the needs of the business community in Lancashire."

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