RESIDENTS are being urged to have their final say on the future of the Upton Heath Estate, neighbouring woodland, footpaths, roads and cycleways.

Last October 74 people took part in a consultation project, held by Purbeck Housing Trust to shape the future of the area.

This consultation helped form the masterplan that will be showcased at a drop-in event on January 19, 10am-2pm, at the LUCA centre, Poole Road, Upton.

Upton Heath Residents Association chairman Simon Williams said: "We hope residents will get fully involved in this hugely important initiative and lend their support to the proposals and let us know if there are things they are not happy with."

The project aims to improve the open spaces around the estate, while keeping recreational activity on the ecologically important Upton Heath to a minimum. Plans include new leisure facilities, improved cycle and walking routes and safer play areas.

Purbeck District Council environment spokesman Cllr John Hyde said: "We are delighted to be supporting this partnership initiative which, as well as enhancing the quality of life for Purbeck residents, par-ticularly those of Upton, will help protect and enhance the district's natural environment."

The project, which is hoped will even discourage crime and disorder in the area, has been run closely by the housing trust, the residents association and the council.

Housing trust manager Robin James said: "This partnership initiative is an opportunity to make a real difference to the quality of life of people, young and old, living in the north-eastern part of Upton."

The proposal will also be displayed at Upton Library bet-ween January 14 to 21, where feedback forms will be available