A politician is urging people to join him in making their views known about developments going on at their doorstep.

MP for Hertsmere Oliver Dowden is asking residents to contribute to the updated Local Plan that will shape developments in the borough for the next two decades.

In a letter to Councillor Harvey Cohen, responsible for planning and development in the borough, Mr Dowden has asked that steps are taken to preserve the area’s character, and that any housing development is matched by infrastructure.

Hertsmere Borough Council have launched the next phase of the development of the updated Hertsmere Local Plan and are consulting people to find out what they would like to see improved.

He said: “One of the great pleasures of living in our part of Hertfordshire is the countryside we have right on our doorstep.

“It makes our towns and villages distinct and special places to live and this is something we must preserve.

“However, we must also make sure we provide more houses for our children and grandchildren so that they too can enjoy the chance to own their own home.

“Hertsmere Borough Council are currently in the process of updating the Borough’s Local Plan, something which will shape development in our area for decades to come. I would strongly encourage everyone in Hertsmere to get involved.”

The consultation ends on Thursday, November 30. For more information visit https://hertsmere-consult.objective.co.uk/portal/.