LANCASTER and Morecambe people are being asked to shape the future of the district.

They are being urged to come up with ideas, help and support in deciding on a vision' for the city of the 21st Century.

The planned Core Strategy is Lancaster City Council's first development plan document to be prepared under a new Government system which aims to guide how decisions are taken.

It is all about building communities which are sustainable in environmental, social and economic terms', says a spokesman.

The key principles of the council's preferred strategy are: Urban concentration building decent new homes, jobs, shops and community facilities in existing urban areas Helping the local economy to grow developing key economic drivers such as higher education and adopting light regulation.

Maintaining Lancaster's identity as a self-contained and varied group of communities.

Regenerating areas of need helping Morecambe to become sustainable and regenerating areas such as Luneside; Sustainable development ensuring new development and infrastructure is sited, designed, built and operated to minimise environmental harm and maximise community benefits Enhancing the environment by ensuring that new development is designed to the highest standards.

Helping to meet rural needs for affordable housing, services, employment and community facilities.

The strategy is out for consultation until March 17, with a series of exhibitions planned across the district.

Council staff will be present to talk to locals at displays at St Nicholas Arcade , Lancaster (February 13 -16, noon to 5pm).

Lancaster University (Feb-ruary 17, noon to 5pm).

Morecambe Arndale Centre (February 20-22, noon to 5pm).

Douglas Park Community Centre, Heysham (February 23 -24, noon to 5pm).

Carnforth Civic Centre (March 1 2, noon to 6.30pm).

Bolton-le-Sands Community Centre March 6, noon to 6pm).

St Margaret's Church, Hornby (March 7, noon to 6.30pm).

Galgate Institute (March 8, noon to 6.30pm).

Victoria Institute, Caton (March 9, noon to 6.30pm).

Gaskell Memorial Hall, Silverdale (March 10, noon to 6.30pm).