Time is running out for residents to voice how their town develops over the next 15 years by giving their input on the draft Warminster Neighbourhood Plan 2.
The consultation remains open until midnight on Monday 23rd March as the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group looks to collect feedback from the whole of the town.
Warminster Mayor, Cllr Andrew Cooper, is calling on all members of the community to act now and add their voice to this public consultation.
He said, “Everyone in Warminster can say exactly what they think – what they like, what they don’t like, what they think should remain in the Plan, what should be added in and what they feel should be removed.
“The Neighbourhood Plan is a working document, a draft which will improve through each and every contribution from all members of the community.
“Please, I urge all the people of Warminster to study and consider this vital document and add their own thoughts and feeling. Residents do not need to comment on everything, just the issues that concern them. Everybody can express their views. The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group want the best for Warminster.”
The community-led plan has been prepared by the Warminster Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, made up of residents and town councillors, and supported by independent planning professionals.
A spokesperson from Warminster Town Council said, “It is important to understand that legislation does not allow Neighbourhood Plans to simply prevent development.
“Due to national and regional housing targets, a Neighbourhood Plan cannot simply say ‘no’ to any more houses being built.
“Through the updated Neighbourhood Plan, we can have more say on where new development is most appropriate, what our local housing needs are, how to achieve good design that adds to the positive qualities of our town, and where green space and environmental features must be protected.
“The second edition looks ahead to 2038 and addresses long-term and new issues, such as tackling climate change, providing affordable homes in the right places, and supporting the local economy.
“Without a Neighbourhood Plan in place, development may take place speculatively and may fail to consider the needs of our community.”
This revised draft will be considered by Full Council with the intention of submitting it to Wiltshire Council and subsequently an Inspector for examination.
The residents of Warminster may, subject to decision, then be offered the chance to accept or reject the Plan in a referendum.
The plan and survey are available to access online at Warminsterplan.com
Hard copies of the draft plan and supporting leaflets will be available at the Civic Centre, Warminster Library, Warminster Sports Centre and Warminster Athenaeum.
A final drop-in session will be held at the Civic Centre for residents to discuss the plan on Wednesday 18th March from 11am until 2pm.
People can also call the council on 01985 214847 to ask questions about the plan.
