Greater Manchester residents and businesses are being asked to help protect key natural habitats.

The Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) has launched two consultations to gather public opinion on safeguarding vital habitat sites in the region.

These consultations are part of the Places for Everyone plan, which was adopted earlier this year by nine boroughs: Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Tameside, Trafford, and Wigan.

The plan aims to identify areas for new homes, jobs, and infrastructure, while also protecting environmental assets and preventing unplanned development.

The GMCA, in collaboration with the nine local authorities, is seeking views on two documents that will give developers clear advice and guidance on development proposals to ensure the protection of two European-designated habitat sites.

The consultations will run for six weeks, ending on Thursday, December 12.

Paul Dennett, City Mayor of Salford and Greater Manchester Lead for Places for Everyone, said: "Places for Everyone is our plan to improve employment opportunities for our communities, deliver the homes that Greater Manchester needs, revitalise our town centres, and rejuvenate our green spaces.

"It’s also our best defence against costly unplanned development.

"These documents will help us to ensure that, through Places for Everyone, the right safeguards are in place to protect our natural environment, including the most important habitats in and around the city region.

"This is your chance to get involved and help shape the future of sustainable development in Greater Manchester."

For more information and to have your say, visit www.gmconsult.org.