THE latest version of West Devon's Core Strategy is being published today (Thursday).

The document sets out a clear, long term view for the future pattern of development across the borough.

For the next seven weeks, residents and businesses have the opportunity to give their views on the proposals.

Cllr Diana Moyse, chairman of the borough council's future planning and housing committee, said: 'At this stage it is important for people to consider whether the strategy is, in their opinion, sound. All comments are sent to the planning inspector who will be holding a public examination into the strategy early next year.'

The strategy maps out the future development of West Devon up to 2026 and has been developed in partnership with key organisations including, Devon County Council and NHS Devon.

Key proposals include:

l The reopening of the railway line between Tavistock and Bere Alston­

l A commitment to work with rural communities to meet their development needs

l New primary schools in Okehampton and Tavistock

l Additional playing fields for Okehampton

l Regeneration of the Hatherleigh Market site

l A new town centre relief road for Okehampton

l A new health care facility for Tavistock

l A new road linking proposed developments on Plymouth Road with those on Callington Road in Tavistock

l 13 hectares of business and employment land in Tavistock and a further ten hectares in Okehampton.

In Tavistock, 500 new homes are proposed near Callington Road. Currently there is one site in the town earmarked for around 250 homes — allocated in the 2005 local plan — which remains undeveloped.

In Okehampton, 900 new homes are proposed to the east of the town. Two further sites in the town are due to be developed for around 500 homes — again allocated in the 2005 local plan. Planning permission has not yet been granted.

There is a commitment to work directly with rural communities to identify village needs. Overall, more than a quarter of new house building will take place in the smaller towns and villages of the borough.

The protection, and where possible enhancement, of the built and natural environment of the borough is also in the strategy.

The core strategy document can be viewed at West Devon's offices at Kilworthy Park, Tavistock and St James' Street, Okehampton, during normal office hours. It is also available at the town libraries in Okehampton and Tavistock.

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