ONLY one week remains for residents to have their say on a major planning document outlining how South Gloucestershire could grow over the next 20 years.

A key planning document, shaping how and where development can take place, the South Gloucestershire Local Plan provides a guide and framework for residents and developers alike, against which the suitability of planning applications are judged.

The current phase of public consultation on the new plan will close on Monday, April 30.

All local authorities need to have an up-to-date Local Plan in place. For South Gloucestershire, with our increasing need for housing and employment opportunities, for the next generations over the next 20 years, an updated plan is currently under development.

This consultation has included a series of drop-in events, in which more than 280 members of the public have met with planning officers to discuss the plan and their views and to submit comments for consideration.

Cllr Colin Hunt, SGC cabinet member for planning, transportation and the strategic environment, Hunt, said: “We want to produce a new Local Plan that works for everyone and we want to hear from everyone to make sure that we take into account their views and explain how the system works.

“I want to encourage everyone to think about this consultation and take part. This is a plan for the whole of South Gloucestershire.

“Growth will happen and through a new Local Plan we want to be able to control it and guide it so that it meets not just your needs, but also the needs of the next generations. We can continue to enjoy South Gloucestershire as a great place to live and work, if we plan positively for new homes and businesses.

“Importantly, by having a robust Local Plan, which residents understand and that they have taken part in shaping, will strengthen the council’s hand against unwanted and speculative development bids.”

Residents and other stakeholders, including Town and Parish Councils and other groups, can contribute to the process in a number of ways. Full details and supporting documents are available online at www.southglos.gov.uk/newlocalplanfeb2018.

Comments can also be submitted via email to planningpolicy@southglos.gov.uk, or by post to: Strategic Planning Policy and Specialist Advice Team, Department for Environment and Community Services, PO Box 1954, Bristol BS37 0DD.

A hard copy of the Local Plan consultation document is available at council One-Stop Shops and libraries for reference.