A DROP-IN event in Barrhead will give residents the chance to learn more about the council’s development plans for the town.

The five-hour open session is being held this Thursday by the planning department of East Renfrewshire Council (ERC) to allow visitors to find out about its Main Issues Report (MIR).

Running from 3pm to 8pm, the free event will cover a range of topics, including: affordable housing, transport links and and how the local authority aims to improve Barrhead town centre.

Councillor Tony Buchanan, convener for infrastructure and sustainable growth, said: “East Renfrewshire Council listens to its residents and we are seeking the views of our community to help us achieve environmental, social and economic benefits for everyone who lives, works, visits and invests in the area.

“Please come along to one of our engagement events and find out more about the MIR and how you can help inform the future of your area.”

The MIR sets out a planning strategy and vision for East Renfrewshire and will help shape the future Proposed Local Development Plan 2 (LDP2).

Focusing primarily on ways of achieving environmental, social and economic benefits, the LDP2 also aims to make the region sustainable.

A consultation will also take place in Neilston Library next Tuesday, from 3pm to 8pm.

Both events will provide residents with an opportunity to tell the council what they think are the main challenges for future development in the area and offer suggestions for ways of overcoming those obstacles.

Such issues include: where new homes should be built, how ERC could meet the needs of a growing elderly population, what infrastructure is needed and how the environment can be better protected.

Views can also be shared online at www.eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk/ldp2, by emailing ldp@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk or by calling 0141 577 3001.

Letters can be sent to Council Offices, 2 Spiersbridge Way, Spiersbridge Business Park, Thornliebank, G46 8NG.

The consultation period for the MIR will run until Wednesday, February 8.