People have been urged to have their say in how the town will find space for thousands of new homes in the years up to 2036.

Watford Borough Council will launch the first consultation on its new local plan on Friday, with an online survey and drop-in sessions.

The Government says Watford must provide 770 new homes every year up until 2036, with the population expected to increase by 110,811 in 2036 - a 15 per cent rise from 2018.

The eventual local plan will earmark sites for new homes and industry, identify how many jobs are needed and set out planning policy.

The council says saying no to growth is not an option, but it wants to work with residents and businesses to decide how best to manage it.

Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor said: “We need residents to work with us on this new local plan to ensure Watford continues to be a vibrant and thriving town.

"Managing the growth that is coming is going to be tricky but we are determined to make it work in Watford’s favour. Part of that means making sure that the right transport and other essential infrastructure is in place.

"We must also make sure that local residents have excellent employment opportunities and access to quality housing. This is about making sure decisions about our town are made here in Watford, with the help of local people."

The six-week consultation runs until Friday 19 October. People can discuss the local plan and ask questions about issues and options at the following drop-in sessions:

• Tuesday September 11: Watford library – large hall (upstairs) - 4.30pm to 6.45pm

• Thursday September 27: North Watford Library - 4.30pm to 7pm

• Saturday September 29: Cassiobury Hub, Cassiobury Park - 11am to 3pm

• Thursday October 4: Watford Museum- 4.30pm to 7pm

Once the first stage of the consultation has been completed, the results will be analysed and a draft local plan will be drawn up. This will include draft policies intended to deal with future applications for development.

Towards the end of 2019, a consultation on the draft local plan will be held.

Visit watfordlocalplan.co.uk to take part in the online survey.