Â鶹ÊÓƵ

Local people and businesses in South Tyneside are reminded that time is running out to have their say on future development in the Borough.

Public consultation on the Council's draft Local Plan will end on Sunday 14 August.

The consultation period, which was originally due to close on 31 July, was extended by two weeks in direct response to residents and community groups who asked for more time to give their views.

The Local Plan will provide a blueprint for where new homes, businesses, shops and leisure facilities will be built over the next 15 years, and ensure that the right infrastructure, such as roads and schools, is in place to support growth.

Over the last few weeks, 11 information events have been held around the Borough and a presentation has been delivered at each of the Community Area Forums.

Cllr Margaret Meling, Lead Member for Economic Growth, Skills and Climate Change, said: "We've had an excellent response so far, with all of our events well attended and more than 1,500 comments received to date.

"Officers will now begin analysing the responses to help shape the next stage of the plan. But don't worry, if you've not already had your say, there is still time left.

"Listening to residents' suggestions is an invaluable part of the process - local people may have local knowledge that we are not aware of.

"The plan affects all of us and it has to bring benefits to all sections of our community, so we need to work together to create a thriving, attractive and prosperous borough."

Under current legislation, the council has a statutory obligation to meet future housing targets set by Government. That means the council must identify land where new homes could be built. The government has set a target for 321 new homes to be built in South Tyneside every year.

The latest 'Regulation 18' draft is one of several formal stages that a Local Plan must pass through by law, prior to adoption

Ultimately, the Plan will be submitted to the Secretary of State for a Public Examination before an independent Planning Inspector.

Cllr Margaret Meling added: "A local plan isn't just about building houses; it is about the fundamental fabric of the place in which we live. We want to create neighbourhoods that last a lifetime.

"It's vital that we have an up-to-date plan so that we maintain control over development in the borough; without one, we are vulnerable to development being imposed upon us and won't have the policies in place to ensure the quality of development that our communities deserve."

To be formally considered, views must be made in writing via the appropriate channels. For further information, visit www.southtyneside.gov.uk/localplan