BUSINESSES and retailers in Fareham are being asked to take part in two surveys that will shape future plans and policy for the town centre.

Civic chiefs have appointed two separate companies to undertake the studies, which aim to identify the town's growth prospects and development needs.

Fareham property advisors Hughes Ellard will consult businesses in the borough focusing on the availability of land and premises for companies' future needs, the availability of skills in the labour market and particularly telecoms and e-systems.

UK-wide planning consultants Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners will undertake a number of different retail and town centre surveys over the coming months, including a household survey, on-street customer survey and a postal survey of local businesses.

They will closely examine the main constraints faced by businesses in the area and whether Fareham's shopping is too upmarket or too down market.

Both surveys should be completed by September and the results will be used to prepare a local development framework for Fareham, which will replace the current Borough Local Plan.

The council's principal planning officer, Roger Comerford, said: "The survey of Fareham businesses will provide valuable information which will be used to ensure Fareham Borough Council takes account of business needs and continues to foster a successful environment for business."

Gary Jeffries of Hughes Ellard added: "The study aims to ensure a positive future for Fareham. There is already a strong focus on technology, which is attracting new business and increasing prosperity in the area".