Stirling Council has launched a new public consultation designed to gather views from local residents over how the town should develop over the next two decades.

The council has been looking to develop a new framework for future growth, with the first stage involving the preparation of a Main Issues Report (MIR) for consultation. Residents will be able to comment on the MIR to form the policy and development options for Stirling, which will be included in the proposed Local Development Plan due for publication in May 2011.

The consultation will run between 7 May and 30 July, including a series of summer roadshows in local towns and villages, as well as a series of drop-in sessions starting in Bridge of Allan on 8 May. Stirling Council portfolio holder with responsibility for environment Jim Thomson said: "The consultation roadshows will enable views and input into the preparation of this key strategy, which will inform the future shape and development of Stirling."