PUBLIC transport, walking and cycling in western Hampshire come under the spotlight when the public gets the chance to have their say today on the shape of things to come.

Exhibitions are being staged in Andover and Stockbridge. Hampshire County Council and Test Valley Borough Council are consulting on the Western Hampshire Transport Strategy (WHTS), which focuses on the rural parishes in the Test Valley. The urban area of Andover is included in another strategy.

The WHTS will direct the county council's transport investment in the area, and identifies the key issues and proposals for action. Both councils now want residents, businesses and other interested groups to put forward their views on the initiatives before taking the strategy any further.

The consultation document is available from the Beech Hurst council offices in Andover, Andover library and the mobile library. It will also be sent direct to a number of stakeholders in the area, including all parish councils.

Exhibitions were being held yesterday and today at the Chantry Shopping Centre, Andover, from 10am to 5.30pm. Council officers will be on hand to answer questions.

Hampshire executive member for environment, Cllr Keith Estlin, said: "WHTS is one of 10 area strategies included in Hampshire's highly-regarded local transport plan, and will affect everyone who lives in the area to some extent.

"That's why it's important that as many people as possible let us know their views on the proposals it contains. "Make sure your voice is heard."

The consultation period runs until 31 December. All comments should be submitted to Transport Policy, Environment Department, Hampshire County Council, The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UD.