Consultation on Local Plan now open

Consultation on the key document that will shape housing and employment in the Staffordshire Moorlands for the next 14 years opens today (Monday 31 July).

Staffordshire Moorlands District Council is seeking views on the latest version of the Local Plan - called the Preferred Options Local Plan - following previous consultations in 2015 and 2016.

Councillor Sybil Ralphs, Leader of the Council, said: "We want everyone who is interested in the future development of the Staffordshire Moorlands to get involved.

"Your views matter and we do listen to what you have to say - this Preferred Options version of the Plan that we are now seeking views on has been amended following comments received during previous consultations.

"Your comments during this consultation will influence the Plan that is eventually put forward to the Government so even if you have made comments previously it's important that you do so again."

The documents are available online and copies can also be viewed at Council one-stop-shops in Biddulph, Cheadle and Leek and at all libraries throughout the district.

A series of drop-in sessions are also planned across the district where people can view maps and talk to Council officers about the proposals. The first of these is at Biddulph Town Hall between 5pm and 8pm on Wednesday 9 August.

The consultation is open from Monday 31 July to 5pm on Friday 22 September. The easiest way to make comments is via the website. Public IT equipment is available in the reception area at Moorlands House in Leek for anyone who doesn't have access to the internet.

Comments can also be made by email to forward.plans@staffsmoorlands.gov.uk or by completing a questionnaire and posting it to: Freepost RRLJ-XCTC-JBZK, Regeneration Manager, Staffordshire Moorlands District Council, Moorlands House, Stockwell Street, Leek, ST13 6HQ (no stamp required).

Postcards highlighting the consultation and reminding people how to view and comment on the document are being delivered to all Staffordshire Moorlands households and businesses from this week.