Residents are being encouraged to take part in a consultation which will help shape Basildon Council’s vision for housing in the borough.

A month-long consultation on the council’s draft Housing Strategy is taking place with members of the public being asked to complete an online survey.

Those who work or study in the borough and residents who complete the survey will be eligible to win a £150 shopping voucher.

The draft strategy has been drawn up to ensure Basildon Council will be able to continue to provide good quality housing options in years to come.

Four priorities have been identified in order to achieve this vision including meeting future growth needs, making the best use of existing homes, supporting residents to create communities they wish to live in and be part of and improving access to housing opportunities and choice.

The online survey asks participants for their views on which issues the council should be prioritising.

The draft Housing Strategy has been prepared over the past year by working with and talking to a range of people and groups, including residents, housing professionals and other organisations.

After the consultation period ends, all responses will be examined and taken into account ahead of the council producing the final version of its Housing Strategy.

The public consultation will run until March 26.

To take part in the survey visit basildon.gov.uk/hs or call 01268 533333 and choose option 5.