Epsom and Ewell Council has prepared a draft design guide for new and replacement shop fronts and is seeking the views of residents.

The guidance aims to manage future changes to the visual appearance of shopping areas in the borough and the council is now consulting residents on the contents of the guide.

The guide covers the main elements of shop front design - the shop front frame, the shop front itself, signage and advertising, and other elements such as security grilles, blinds and alarms.

Councillor Michael Arthur, chair of the planning policy sub-committee, said: "Shop fronts make a significant contribution to the visual character and appearance of the borough’s many different shopping areas.

"Changes to shop fronts can, over time, have a major impact on the appearance of these areas.

"We know that there are particular concerns that shop fronts respect the building that they are part of, particularly in conservation areas.

"This is an opportunity for our residents to shape the look and feel of the area in which they live.

"The council believes that by encouraging good shop front design, shopping areas will continue to be economically vibrant places that shoppers want to visit".

The consultation paper can be viewed and commented on electronically at http://epsom-ewell.limehouse.co.uk/portal/draft_shopfront_design_guide

Copies are also available to view at the Town Hall and libraries around the borough. The consultation ends on Friday, April 27.