People will be quizzed on their views about the future of a town centre in a new public survey.

A new 'masterplan' for Folkestone will then be drawn up on the back of the results.

Folkestone and Hythe District Council (FHDC) launched the consultation last Wednesday after hiring a research company - at the cost of £12,770 - to probe shoppers, visitors and business owners throughout the town.

The aim of the 10-minute questionnaire is to get people to share their long-term vision for Folkestone, including their views on the current range of shops and businesses on offer, and suggestions on the ongoing regeneration.

Other topics in the survey will include the attractiveness of the area and the sense of community that exists.

FHDC say the responses will help shape the town's 'future prospects'.

A spokesman for the authority said: "The information will be used to inform the development of a masterplan for the town centre.

"Where appropriate, it will also be incorporated into future council policies which impact the area."

And the council's future plans could see a different offer being developed - such as the inclusion of leisure facilities.

The spokesman added: "The changing face of retail presents a fantastic opportunity to revitalise the town centre.

"This could involve encouraging new social and leisure aspects into the area.

"As a result, the community would be able to enjoy what the town centre has to offer even more both throughout the day and into the evenings."

The town centre is already set for big changes - flagship store Debenhams will leave in 2020, with the council revealing earlier this year that a cinema could replace it.

Those conducting the survey will be located throughout the town centre for 24 days, which the council says will 'ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate'.

Leader of the council, Cllr David Monk said: "Folkestone has witnessed a great deal of regeneration in recent times, and this is something which is rightly celebrated.

"But we acknowledge - as is the case elsewhere across the country - it is a difficult time for retailers.

"The current situation only strengthens our resolve to ensure a long-term, sustainable future for our town centre.

"This questionnaire is not just about development - this is about building a cohesive town centre for everyone.

"We want to improve the appeal of the area to residents and visitors, and support economic growth in the district at the same time.

"We invite the public to voice their opinion through this survey."

In addition, the council says it will survey 100 businesses, including local traders and those considering investing in the area or relocating, in order to assess 'what could help encourage further regeneration'.

Cllr David Wimble, cabinet member for economy, added: "We’re keen to know what works and the things people already enjoy - as well as the aspects that can be improved.

"This survey isn’t just about one aspect of the town centre.

"It will help reveal people’s current perceptions of the area, and also identify commercially viable ideas to ensure the town centre remains fit for purpose."

The new survey was launched last Wednesday and will run until today, and then again from Thursday, November 7 through to Sunday, November 24.

This is not the only initiative revealed by the council this year designed to enhance the town centre.

Last month, councillors approved a scheme to inject £3m cash into the district's High Streets.

Of that, £2.2m has been earmarked for Folkestone and the remaining £800,000 is to be split between Cheriton, Sandgate, Hythe, Dymchurch, New Romney, Lydd, Hawkinge, Lyminge, Sellindge and Elham.

Business owners can now apply for grants from this pot to help expand or develop their venture. Visit www.folkestone.works

Read more: All the latest news from Folkestone