BURNLEY Council has organised an event to help residents and community group representatives understand more about how planning works and how it can affect them.

The event at Burnley Football Club today will have council workers on hand to answer questions and concerns.

There will also be extra support from an independent agency called Planning Aid, which specialises in helping people understand exactly how plans work, why they are needed and how they can affect residents.

Margaret Whewell, the council's policy and environment manager, said: "From housing and employment, to transport and the environment, planning affects everyone, but to just inform people about plans is not enough.

"Residents must help shape those plans and that comes through developing an understanding.

"People, not buildings, are at the heart of the planning system."

Representatives from two lead developers, Gleeson and Keepmoat Plc, selected to work alongside the community to bring new homes to areas under the Elevate housing market renewal programme, will also be present to answer residents' concerns.

Mrs Whewell added: "While there are big changes proposed to improve lives across the borough, such as those under the Elevate programme, planning is also about the smaller changes too wall extensions, conservatories and other housing improvements.

"This event will give residents the chance to find out about new plans and how they can get more involved over the summer months."

Places for the event are limited so anyone interested in attending should contact Jane Gaut on 01282 425011.