PLANS to protect Bewdley’s historic character from future developments have been revealed- and those living in the town are able to have their say on its future.
A consultation has begun for the revised Bewdley Neighbourhood Development Plan, which will guide development in the parish until 2040.
Residents will now have until 5pm on Sunday, November 16 to make their voices heard.
The neighbourhood plan aims to put the power back into the hands of local residents and businesses, who often find it difficult to have a meaningful say in planning decisions.
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The draft plan, which has been produced by a steering group, looks to protect Bewdley’s character, enhance its green spaces, support sustainable development, and ensure the local economy is booming.
The plan also aims to manage the effects of flooding, protect the identity of Bewdley as a historic riverside market town and ensure future developments enhance the towns existing character.
And it is hoped the plan will ensure traffic is reduced and car parking facilities are improved.
The updated plan builds on a previous consultation in 2021 and reflects changes in national planning policies and evolving community priorities.
The steering group will also be holding four drop-in sessions throughout October to answer any questions and to outline the process to come before the plan can be adopted.
The first one will be held between 2pm and 6pm on Friday, October 17 at the community centre on Shaw Hedge Road.
There will be a second two hour session from 10am the following day at the same venue.
A further two drop-in sessions, between 2pm and 6pm on October 24 and from 10am until 2pm the following day, will be held at Elim Church on Dog Lane.
All responses will then be analysed, after which the draft neighbourhood development plan may be amended.
The final plan along with supporting information will be then submitted to Wyre Forest District Council.
Should the draft plan get through all the needed stages, a referendum will be held to decide whether it is adopted.
Those wishing to have their say on the plan can collect a questionnaire from the Bewdley Town Council office on Load Street.
Visit bewdleytowncouncil.gov.uk/council-meetings-committees-groups/neighbourhood-plan to take part in the questionnaire online.
