RESIDENTS and the business community in Fareham have been casting their eyes over a new plan that aims to shape the heart of the town.

Home owners, developers and organisations that have an interest in the town centre have been given the opportunity to comment on the Fareham Town Centre Design Guide, prepared by the borough council.

The document aims to encourage a high quality of design for developments proposed for the town centre.

Character assessments of the different areas within the heart of the town are identified, with a series of design objectives.

Executive member for planning and transportation Councillor Arthur Mandry said: "Public consultation is a key part of the preparation of this guide and it is important therefore that we get the views of local residents, businesses, developers and organisations that live, operate or who have an interest in the town centre."

The display was held at Fareham Central Library and council officers were on hand to answer any questions.

The exhibition, which runs until December 12, is being held at the ground floor reception of Fareham Civic Offices in Civic Way.