PLANNERS in West Devon are about to chart a ten-year course for development in the borough — and they want residents to play a full part in the process.
The strategy, called the Local Plan, will guide development throughout the borough between 2001 and 2011.
Land for housing, employment, and social and cultural facilities will all come under the microscope along with care of the natural environment.
The first stage in that process will be decided at a meeting of the borough's strategic development committee next Thursday. It follows initial consultation with residents and organisations in West Devon.
Stephen Gill, head of planning and development at West Devon, said: 'The Local Plan is the basis upon which all planning applications are determined.
'We have had many people involved through discussion days and it has been very successful.
'Although councillors will be making a decision next Thursday it is only on what should go into a consultation document — that will then be subject to widespread consultation.'
Mr Gill said the council would welcome as many people as possible to the meeting to observe the proceedings.
'People cannot speak at the meeting but they will be able to make comments afterwards when the first stage goes out to consultation.
'That will take place over a six-week period during which there can be objections and supporting statements.
'We want as many people as possible on board.'
The strategic development committee meeting starts at 2pm on Thursday April 13 at West Devon Council's offices at Kilworthy Hill, Tavistock.