NEW-look neighbourhood meetings, aimed at giving residents a greater say in local decisions are set to begin next month.

Castle Point Council is promising the meetings will be more than just talking shops – residents coming along will be given money to spend on community projects of their choice.

Each will have its own meeting, with borough councillors and representatives of the police and county highways department on hand to answer questions.

The meetings will also feature stands on which local organisations and community groups can publicise their activities.

Refreshments will be served and time will be set aside at each meeting for debate on a hot topic, such as street cleanliness.

Significantly, each of the quarterly meetings will be given a budget of £5,000 per ward to spend on projects in that area.

Council leader Pam Challis said: “We have been running neighbourhood meetings for several years, and they have a loyal group of supporters.

“However, we would like to hear from as many people as possible.

“We are hoping to see some new faces alongside our regular participants.”

The next meeting will on June 17, in Benfleet, with Canvey East, Canvey West, Thundersley and Hadleigh and Daws Heath sessions scheduled in July.

For dates, venues and times, visit visit www.castle point.gov.uk