A BLUEPRINT is being drawn up of how Altrincham town centre might look over the next 15 years.

The Business Neighbourhood Plan, which when completed, will set out the town's aspirations, from both a resident and business point of view.

The upcoming first stage consultation from today to November 13, will target everyone who uses the town centre facilities, by getting them involved and encouraging them to give their opinions to create the blueprint for its future.

The questionnaire includes asking people what facilities they currently use and what they would like to see more of, whether it be additional housing, retail, environmental.

It also asks what forms of transport they use to get to the centre and whether more parking is required, and as final question the one thing they would like to see happen to improve the town overall.

The chairman of the Altrincham Business Neighbourhood Forum, Tony Collier, said: “The creation of this plan is so important as it will help to determine how Altrincham will look and develop in the future.

"To create a plan that will truly benefit the town we need the help of those who know their town best; those who live and work here. We need their participation to tell us what they want to see and how they want their town centre to look.

"Ultimately, their thoughts will count and at the end of the process they will get the opportunity to vote for or against the plan. If they vote for it."

The plan is being put together on behalf of Trafford Council by members of the forum who will gather the opinions from members of the public and business.

Ultimately, after the different stages of the consultation process, residents and businesses will be given the opportunity to vote for or against the plan.

If people vote in favour, Trafford Council will adopt the plan as a blueprint for all its town centre planning decisions from 2015 to 2030.

Mr Collier adds: "Trafford Council must use the plan as the basis for all their town centre planning decisions which goes to show just how real and influential this plan will be. We hope the people of Altrincham will want to own it and get involved.”

The second stage of the consultation will be held in early 2015, asking for comment on draft proposals. The third stage will be held in mid 2015 when people will be able to comment on final proposals, before a vote in held.

Opinions will be gathered via an online questionnaire at myaltrincham.org and at the following locations:

* Saturday, October 18 Altrincham Market 10am – 4pm

* Saturday, October 18 Altrincham Tesco 10am – 4pm

* Sunday, October 19 Altrincham Market Midday – 4pm

* Tuesday, October 21 Altrincham Market 10am – 2pm

* Saturday, October 25, Old New Look site Altrincham Precinct 10am – 4pm