RESIDENTS have only to the end of the month to make their views heard on plans for the future of the River Hamble.

Hampshire County Council and the Hamble Harbour Authority are working together to draw up a new management plan.

They are keen for interested people to have their say on the blueprint for the Hamble Estuary Management Plan (EMP), part of a government initiative to better manage Britain's coast and rivers.

It will set policies on a wide range of topics including nature conservation, recreation, shore development, navigation, fishing and bait digging, moorings, archaeology and pollution.

The county council's environment boss, Councillor Keith Estlin, said: "Everyone's views count and I urge all those who have views on the management of the Hamble to make sure these are sent to the project officer by the May deadline."

The draft can be viewed online at www.hants. gov.uk/hambleharbour or at the harbour office visitor centre in Shore Road, Warsash, where comments should be sent to the EMP project officer by May 31.