SALISBURY residents and businesses are invited to start thinking about the future of the city at a public meeting later this month.

A neighbourhood plan for Salisbury will be top of the agenda at the Guildhall on January 29.

The meeting organised by Salisbury City Council will be chance for people to get involved in discussions about the city in the years ahead "in very real and practical terms".

It will involve a series of "speed presentations" and exercises.

Neighbourhood plans are designed to allow communities to shape the development of their local area, including what types of homes are built.

City council leader Matthew Dean said: "We've already had lots of interest from community groups getting involved which is excellent."

Salisbury's neighbourhood plans is expected to take at least a year to complete. A referendum of city residents will then decide whether it is adopted.

Councillor Jeremy Nettle, chairman of the city council's planning committee, said: "We have been waiting to start this process for a number of years and I am pleased that the council had now agreed to start this,

"We know that this is a long process and will include not only public consultations but meeting with Wiltshire planners as well as our neighbouring parishes.

"I am extremely excited and honoured that the planning and transportation group will be an integral part of this study."

The first meeting is limited to 65 people but there will be more opportunities later in the year to get involved.

Government guidance states that neighbourhood plans allow communities to choose where they want new homes, shops and offices to be built, have their say on what those new buildings should look like and what infrastructure should be provided.

To reserve a place or for more details, visit salisburycitycouncil.gov.uk/neighbourhood-planning