Plans to build a total of 42,000 new homes, mainly on the outskirts of Lincoln, Gainsborough and Sleaford, will be unveiled to the public over the next month.

And four separate consultation days have been organised for residents to have their say on the ambitious programme – which will also include new housing in rural areas of central Lincolnshire.

The joint strategic planning committee – made up of district and county council representatives – is providing specialists to advise people who attend the drop-in days.

And they will be able to provide a blueprint for specific development programmes for Lincoln, Sleaford, Gainsborough and Caistor.

Proposals to build 42,000 new homes across the central Lincolnshire area include up to 17,000 in and around Gainsborough in the next 15 years.

With government-appointed Growth Point status already secured, the town has been identified for investment in property, business and infrastructure over the next two decades.

The Central Lincolnshire Joint Planning Committee wants people from all over the county to attend the consultation process.

"This will affect where people live, shop, work and enjoy leisure time," a spokesman said.

"The Central Lincolnshire plan will be common across an area of 817 square miles and stretch from Keelby near Grimsby down to Kelby south of Sleaford, affecting in excess of 282,000 people.

"In broad terms it will include provision for 42,000 homes to accommodate an anticipated 86,000 new people moving to the area by 2026, supported by 28,200 new jobs."

Lincoln Drill Hall hosts an open day on Friday, February 24, between 11am and 5pm.

For more details contact 01522 699013 or 01529 308084, e-mail talkplanning@central-lincs.org.uk or visit www.central-lincs.org.uk