THE public have been offered the chance to have their say over the future of transport in the region.

Essex County Council are currently drawing up a new set of policies for the area's roads and rail networks, due to be implemented in April 2011, and want to hear what people in the district want its transport cash to be spent on.

The Local Transport Plan which is revised every five years, covers everything from cycling facilities to freight transportation.

Cllr Roger Walters, deputy cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: “It is vitally important that we know how our residents want to travel and we hope they will contribute by filling out this survey.

“Their input will help us to meet our goals of tackling congestion and pollution, improving public transport and reducing accidents."

He added: “In addition our transport teams will be meeting with residents and organisations across the county, gathering views which will help us to develop our next Local Transport Plan.”

Essex County Council spends around £120 million every year on transport in the region, which covers 4,600 miles of road and more than 5,000 miles of footpaths.

To take part in the online consultation click here.