RESIDENTS are being invited to have their say on the long-term vision for West Devon as consultation events get underway in Bere Alston on Saturday. 

To support the formal consultation of the strategic draft, 'Our Plan', a series of drop-in events have been arranged around the borough.

These are a chance for residents to drop by to find out more about the plan and have their say on shaping the development of the area between now and 2031.

The first drop-in event will start at 10am when officers from West Devon Borough Council will be attending the Bere Alston farmers' market, with the Bere Peninsula Neighbourhood Planning Group.

'Our Plan' sets out what the borough may look like in the future as the council plans for new homes, future jobs and ensures that there is the necessary infrastructure to support such developments. The draft plan also sets out the council's approach to issues, including renewable energy and affordable housing.

Over the last ten months, strategic planning officers from the council have spoken with a wide range of businesses and organisations as well as residents to collect important feedback and gather information.

Cllr Philip Sanders, leader of West Devon Borough Council, said: 'I would encourage anyone who is able to visit the consultation events, where they will be able to discuss issues with members of staff and express their views on the plan.

'For those who cannot get to any event, I would urge them to look at the consultation document, either on the website, or to obtain a hard copy from the offices in Okehampton and Tavistock.'

The team will also be at Hatherleigh Market from 9.30am to noon on Tuesday, March 3 and at the Charter Hall in Okehampton from 2pm until 8pm on Wednesday, March 4.

The formal consultation period will run for six weeks from today (Thursday) to Monday April 13 with further drop-in sessions planned for: Hatherleigh on March 12; Tavistock on March 14; Lifton on March 18; and North Tawton on March 21.

Copies of the plans are available at the council's offices at Kilworthy Park, Tavistock and the Customer Services Centre in St James' Street, Okehampton throughout the consultation period.

All those registered on the council's consultation database will be sent direct notification of the consultation. After the consultation period has finished the council will publish details of all the comments and views received.

To be taken into account, comments must be made in writing. Full details are available from today (Thursday) at http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/ourplan">www.westdevon.gov.uk/ourplan

Follow Our Plan on Twitter @OurPlanWD and Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/OurPlanWD">www.facebook.com/OurPlanWD

For more information or to add your name to the consultation database, email [email protected]">[email protected] call 01822 813600.