FORMAL consultation around a draft strategic plan which sets out the long term vision for development in West Devon up to 2031 begins on Thursday, February 26 and will continue for a further six weeks.

West Devon Borough Council leader Cllr Philip Sanders is urging people to take time and view the 'Our Plan' documents which set out what the borough may look like in the future as the council plans for new homes, future jobs and ensures there is the infrastructure to support such developments.

The draft plan also sets out the council's approach to issues, including renewable energy and affordable housing.

Cllr Sanders said: 'A lot of preparatory work has gone into this draft for consultation. It is now very important that residents, businesses and other organisations view the draft and make comments.

'Every comment will be considered and where appropriate, changes to the draft will be made before the final version is considered by the planning inspectorate at a public hearing.'

'Our Plan' has been developed and drafted using all the information available to the council and is expected to deliver an average of 216 extra homes per year up to 2031, which is lower than the current government target of 220.

While some growth is planned for the two main towns of Tavistock and Okehampton, the council is also looking to see new homes built across the borough to help communities remain sustainable and retain local facilities and services.

Over the last ten months, officers have travelled across West Devon talking with and listening to hundreds of people to gather information for the plan.

They have spoken with a wide range of organisations, including businesses at workshops and college sixth formers, residents and visitors at events such as the Okehampton and Chagford agricultural shows, Tavistock Community Day and Lamerton Country Fair, agents and developers and community groups such as the Devon Disability Network and the voluntary sector.

Events are also going to be held across the borough during the six weeks of consultation. The venues and dates are:

l Bere Alston Market at the Parish Hall —Saturday, February 28, from 10am until noon.

l Hatherleigh Market — Tuesday, March 3, from 9.30am to noon.

l Okehampton Charter Hall — Wednesday, March 4, from 2pm to 8pm.

l Hatherleigh Com-munity Centre — Thursday, March 12, from 2pm to 8pm.

l Tavistock Town Hall — Saturday, March 14, from 10am to 4pm.

l The Arundell Arms (The Tamar Room), Lifton — Wednesday, March 18, from 2pm to 8pm.

l North Tawton Town Hall — Saturday, March 21, from 10am to 4pm.

In Bere Alston, North Tawton and Lifton, the events are being held jointly with the local Neighbourhood Planning Group.

The formal consultation period runs from Thursday, February 26 to Monday, April 13. Comments must be made in writing to be taken into account. Full details will be available on the council's website at http://www.westdevon.gov.uk/">www.westdevon.gov.uk/ ourplan

Copies of the plans will be available to view throughout the consultation period at the council's offices at Kilworthy Park, Tavistock and the Customer Services Centre in St James' Street, Okehampton.

All those registered on the council's consultation database will be sent direct notification of the consultation.

After the consultation period is completed the council will publish details of all the comments and views received.

Anyone who would like to be informed directly about the consultation can add their name to the council's 'Our Plan' database by contacting strategic planning at [email protected]">[email protected] or calling 01822 813600.