Ashfield District Council has opened its Local Plan Consultation today to give residents an opportunity to have their say about how they feel the key places in the district should develop over the period to 2038.

The Local Plan is where the big decisions on planning for the future of the district and its communities will be made. It responds to the challenges faced around population growth, and climate change. It sets out where new homes and employment units will be built, where new community facilities and infrastructure such as schools will be needed, and what areas should be protected for their environmental and other benefits.

It includes controversial proposals to build 3000 houses on greenbelt land at Whyburn Farm in Hucknall which has provoked strong feelings from many residents in the local area who are vehemently opposed to it.

Councillor Mathew Relf, Cabinet Member for Planning & Regeneration said "The Local Plan sets out how the District will develop over the next 15 years in terms of housing, employment, transport, environment and infrastructure. This consultation gives residents the chance to have their say on the plans.

"A significant amount of engagement has already taken place during the evidence gathering stages of the Plan preparation. This includes discussions with site owners, liaison with agents, developers, the highway authority, service providers, other local councils, and responding to queries from members of the public or local organisations. We're now asking you to have your say."

Full details of the Local Plan consultation can be found on Ashfield District Council's website and social media pages.

Copies of the draft Local Plan and its Policies Map can be viewed at Hucknall Library as well as at the libraries in Sutton and Selston, and the Council Offices on Urban Road in Kirkby-in-Ashfield.

Appointments are available to discuss the plans with Planning Officers at various buildings in the district including Hucknall Library.

Planning officers are available to contact Monday – Friday 8.30 – 5pm (4.30pm on Fridays) by telephone on - 01623 457381, 457382, 457383 or 457379.

Alternatively, a meeting through Zoom or Teams can be arranged by contacting the Forward Planning team on the numbers above or emailing [email protected]

Cllr Relf continued: "Through the Towns Fund and other funding opportunities we are investing in making Ashfield an area of excellence for manufacturing, automation and distribution, bringing high quality jobs to the District. The development of housing, infrastructure and community facilities play a vital role in that. The future is bright for Ashfield and the Local Plan plays a pivotal role in its future.

"I encourage all residents to have their say on the Plans. Your feedback and comments are what will help shape the Local Plan and the future of Ashfield."

The consultation runs between 4 October and 16 November 2021.