A STUDY into the shopping and leisure needs of Okehampton and Tavistock is to be conducted by independent consultants brought in by West Devon Borough Council.

Residents will be contacted by phone or approached in the town centres and asked their opinion on the different types of leisure and shopping facilities that are available in the towns. This will aid research into whether any extra facilities will be needed in the future.

The study will be conducted by Strategic Perspectives, an independent retail, town centre and economic development consultancy. They will talk to local businesses, residents and visitors to understand what people value about the town centres, learn where people do their shopping and find any opportunities to improve provision in the towns.

Cllr Sue Bailey, West Devon Borough Councillor for Tavistock North said: 'This study is really important for us to find out how well our towns are serving our communities.

'Over the next few weeks residents may get a phone call or be stopped in the street and asked about their shopping habits and views about the towns.

'I'd like to encourage everyone to take the time to answer these questions so that we can get a really good understanding about what is needed and valued in our towns.'

Cllr Kevin Ball, West Devon Borough Councillor for Okehampton East said: 'Research like this is at the heart of community improvement and it's the starting point for local authorities during the forward planning process.

'The council needs to know what the people of Okehampton want and need for the future, so if you're approached while shopping or you receive a phone call, please do give us your opinions.'

You can also send your views by filling in a short questionnaire on the council's website http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/strategicplanning">www.westdevon.gov.uk/strategicplanning

The study is due to be completed by spring 2012.