THE deadline is approaching for residents to have their say about how many new homes, and of what type, are needed in the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

A housing needs survey – which is being carried out by Cumbria Rural Housing Trust – has been launched to identify what housing is needed, for example if an area is particularly in need of more affordable housing.

The survey has been distributed to all households in the AONB and it is important that every household completes and returns the survey by Monday, 16 June 2014. This will ensure that the results of the survey are as accurate as possible.

MORE TOP STORIES: The findings of the housing needs survey will help inform a Development Plan Document being jointly prepared by South Lakeland District Council (SLDC) and Lancaster City Council (LCC) for the whole Arnside and Silverdale AONB.

Arnside and Beetham SLDC Councillor Ian Stewart said: “"This is an important survey as it will help inform decisions which will help make sure that the AONB remains as a "special place" with sustainable communities, so please make sure that you complete and return the survey."

Once complete the Development Plan Document will form part of both SLDC’s and LCC’s Local Plans and will set out planning policies to ensure that any development is in keeping with the AONB designation.