Residents in Bracknell Forest are being asked for their feedback on the council's updated Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) for planning.

This public consultation is an opportunity for residents to help shape how they are involved in the planning process.

The consultation, which can be accessed via the council’s website, is open until 5pm on December 3.

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It outlines how the council keeps residents informed about the planning process, when they can be involved, and how their comments can influence future developments in the borough.

The council’s Cabinet approved the consultation at its meeting earlier this month.

All feedback received will be thoroughly reviewed and will contribute to the final version of the SCI.

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Once adopted, the SCI will guide how the council consults with residents and stakeholders on all planning-related decisions.

Councillor Guy Gillbe, cabinet member for planning, transport and countryside, said: "It’s essential that our planning consultation processes reflect residents’ wants and needs.

"The updated statement of community involvement has been rewritten to provide clearer and more user-friendly guidance, in line with essential planning regulations.

"It is designed to make the process more transparent and easier to understand.

"We encourage all residents to review the document and share their feedback before December 3."

The consultation documents are available on the consultation portal.

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Hard copies can also be found at borough libraries, town and parish council offices, and Time Square during normal opening hours.

Community involvement is considered an important part of the planning process, as planning decisions can affect everyone in Bracknell Forest.

However, it has been noted that most people only engage with planning when it directly affects them.

The SCI explains how the planning services keep residents informed and when they can get involved in future planning matters.

It offers brief guidance on how the planning system works, how residents can take part in planning decisions, and what they can expect if they choose to get involved.

The council is currently updating its Statement of Community Involvement and is seeking comments and views on the content and scope of the draft Statement of Community Involvement 2024.

They are interested in feedback on anything that could help them improve the document.

Feedback can be given to the council through the online survey.