A CRITICAL phase of the process that will decide where to build thousands of homes in Notts has now arrived.

The county's town planners have given their verdict on where 32,000 houses should go, of the 52,000 the Government says are needed.

Today, we publish the planners' conclusions.

In the coming weeks, politicians will have their say. Then, by the end of the month, the first round of public consultation is expected to begin.

It is important residents make their voice heard. You can be sure the developers will not be shy.

This is a crucial opportunity to comment on the proposed housing sites and to raise concerns about associated matters, such as transport, employment, services and retail.

However, we do not yet know exactly which housing sites will be put to the public.

It remains to be seen whether politicians at each local authority in south Notts will endorse what their officers have suggested.

All eyes will be on Rushcliffe Borough Council, where large developments on land south of Clifton and east of Gamston have been included, even though councillors are known to be sceptical.

The Gamston development will be required if Nottingham Forest are to build a new football stadium there, which would allow the city's bid to become a host city in the 2018 World Cup to stay on track.

A lot rides on the debate over the next few weeks – make sure you take part.