LOCAL people are being urged to have their say on the future of Torbay's heritage.

The Bay's buildings, parks, gardens and special events are among the subjects on which residents can comment as part of the in-depth survey which is currently under way.

Almost 100 responses have already been returned to the council and there are still six weeks left before the closing date for feedback.

Through its Heritage Strategy, Torbay Council said it aims to find the best way of maintaining and developing Torbay's economic, social and environmental regeneration.

Cllr Dave Butt, (pictured left) chairman of the Heritage Strategy Board, said: "The project is an important and exciting scheme to restore and enhance important symbols of our identity.

"I am really pleased we have had such a good response to this strategy, and I hope many more people get behind it in the next few weeks.

"We really want to know what is important to them, because this isn't just about conservation. Torbay combines so many areas of special architectural and historical interest.

"For example, the Bay's Geopark status puts us on the international stage as an important heritage destination and helps sustain our economy and wildlife.

"It promotes many of Torbay's assets including our fabulous wildlife, marine biology, dolphins, archaeological and geological heritage, and much more.

"If we manage our heritage well it can contribute towards our economic prosperity, help sustain our tourism industry and improve the quality of life of our residents and future generations."

The questionnaire is available online at www.torbay.gov.uk until April 5.

Hard copies can be found in Torbay's libraries, Connections offices and the Consultation Caravan. All the feedback will be used to help form a Draft Heritage Strategy.

The results will be made public later this year. The final Heritage Strategy is expected to be completed in 2011.