RESIDENTS of a Hampshire town are being invited to help clear the way for a major overhaul of their local transport network.

Hampshire County Council, Eastleigh Borough Council and consultants WSP Transportation are urging Hedge End locals to have their say at a public exhibition this week.

The transport chiefs want to find out the needs of residents before drawing up plans that will reshape the existing network to benefit both the local community and businesses over the next decade.

The package of measures could include the introduction of staff travel plans for local businesses, home deliveries, improved parking arrangements and road improvements.

Proposals to further develop alternative forms of transport to the car and to meet the needs of people with impaired mobility are also being put forward.

Locals will now be able to have their say at a public exhibition being held at St Luke's Church Hall, in the town's Shamblehurst Lane.

Chairman of Hampshire County Council's planning and transportation committee councillor Dudley Keep has warmly welcomed the chance for local people's views to be aired. He said: "We hope many people will take the time to visit the exhibition and join in the consultation.

"This will help us put together a strategy for transport in the area for the next ten years.

"It will be tailor-made to suit the transport needs of local residents and businesses alike."

The exhibition and consultation session will take place from 2pm to 7pm on Friday and from 10am to 1pm on Saturday.

Staff from the local authorities and the firm of consultants will be on hand to answer questions and discuss improvements that have already been made to the area.