PEOPLE are being asked to help shape the future of their neighbourhood by developing an action plan.

People living in Hartlepool's Rossmere area have been invited to a consultation session to help create the plan.

It will identify what is needed to improve the quality of life for residents and will cover key themes: jobs and the economy; lifelong learning and skills; health and care; community safety; environment and housing; culture and leisure; and strengthening communities.

The area to be covered by the plan is bordered by Brierton Lane and Belle Vue Way in the north, Catcote Road and Torquay Avenue in the west, Brenda Road in the east, and reaches to and includes Queens Meadow Business Park in the south.

The consultation workshop is next Tuesday, at Ardrossan Court, off Rossmere Way, from 1pm to 3pm.

Present at the workshops will be staff from Hartlepool Borough Council's regeneration team, plus Hartlepool Primary Care Trust, Housing Hartlepool, police and other key organisations, ward councillors and local groups.

Genevieve Parker, the council's principal regeneration officer, said: "It's vital for as many people as possible, of all ages, to come along and help shape the future of their area.

"We want them to tell us about anything they feel is a problem in the area and to highlight the area's strengths and weaknesses, so we can use this information to plan what we can do to improve and enhance the area over the longer term."

People who cannot attend the workshop but want to find out more, can call Adele Wilson on (01429) 284097 or Ms Parker on (01429) 523521.