Have your say and help shape the future of the borough up to 2031.

That’s the message from Swale council, which is preparing its 'core strategy’ described as the most important planning document for the borough.

The council is appealing for the views of Sittingbourne people on its consultation document called 'pick your own’.

When the core strategy is complete it will set out a vision to 2031 and a series of development proposals and policies to achieve it.

Pick your own seeks views on the possible direction that Swale should be heading in.

These options consider the amount of development that should take place in Swale and where these homes and jobs should be.

Four options are presented in the document, which includes ideas about expanding the Port of Sheerness, the Kent Science Park in Sittingbourne and some villages.

Included in two of the options is a new Sittingbourne Southern Relief Road between the M2 and A2.

The council will also be holding a Question Time-style event before an invited audience next month.

A number of seats will also be available for members of the public on application. Questions for panellists can be submitted via the council website.

Cllr Gerry Lewin, Swale council’s cabinet member for sustainable planning, said: “While there are immediate challenges facing the borough, we are duty bound to look this far ahead.

"We need to canvass the full range of options and make sure that the consultation paper covers every option open to us, so that we do not miss anything vital.

"We must also ensure we do not shy away from controversial options. Some residents may not be in favour of some of the options, which is why it is essential that anyone with a view lets us have it.

"The consultation is really important and the views expressed will help to shape the future of where we live.

“The proof that this approach works is the Sheppey Crossing. We pursued that for 27 years and it was ultimately delivered.

"We now need a fresh set of aspirations and to pursue them with the same vigour.”

The consultation ends at 5pm on March 14, 2011.

• For more information call 01795 417118, visit the Swale council website or visit any council office or any public library.
• An exhibition will also be available in the planning services reception at Swale House during normal office hours.
• To make comments write to the spatial planning policy manager at Swale House, East Street, Sittingbourne, Kent ME10 3HT or email pyo@swale.gov.uk
• Residents can also follow the consultation on Facebook and Twitter, although the council will not give individual responses.
• A presentation will also be given at the Sittingbourne Local Engagement Forum, at the Woodcombe Sports and Social Club, Church Road, Murston, on Tuesday, January 18, at 7pm, and at the Swale Rural Forum on Saturday, March 9, at 7pm – details to be confirmed.