RESIDENTS in Abbotskerswell are being invited to comment on the village’s Neighbourhood Plan.

The blueprint for the future of the community over the next 16 years has been compiled by a team of locals on behalf of Abbotskerswell Parish Council with support from Teignbridge Council. 

The plan includes a range of aims, planning policies and proposals for improving the area, designating local green spaces, promoting and safeguarding community facilities, reducing flooding and pollution, supporting affordable housing and provision for more employment.

It also seeks to address highway safety and parking concerns.

A consultation period, running for six weeks, kicked off on February 20 and ends on April 3.

A steering group, chaired by David Munden, led the process of establishing a plan. Input came from local businesses, landowners, residents and community groups.

Cllr John Goodey, Teignbridge’s executive spokesman for community neighbourhoods, said: 

‘This is a fantastic opportunity for people to take part and help shape Abbotskerswell for the future.

‘An adopted Neighbourhood Plan is a legal document sitting alongside the Teignbridge Local Plan when planning applications are considered.

‘It is important because it helps to deliver the types of homes our residents need along with quality development including community facilities and green spaces.’

He added: ‘We will listen carefully to the views of local people and consider changes where appropriate. All comments will go to the Neighbourhood Plan Examiner before a referendum is held, asking the local community if they want to accept the plan.’

David Munden, chairman of Abbotskerswell’s Neighbourhood Development Plan Team, chipped in: ‘Neighbourhood planning is a very detailed and comprehensive process and our plan should provide our area with a blueprint for the foreseeable future, one which safeguards all that is good about Abbotskerswell, whilst at the same time addressing some known problem areas and allowing changes which will benefit the whole community. 

Cllr Wendy Grierson, chairman of Abbotskerswell Parish Council, said: ‘We are grateful for all the thorough research and the commitment given to the project, through the dedication and hard work of the Abbotskerswell Neighbourhood Development Team. I’d like to thank everyone who contributed to the plan’s creation.’

The plan can be found online at http://www.abbotskerswell.org.uk.

Paper copies of the plan are also available to view at Teignbridge’s Forde House offices in Newton Abbot and at The Orchard Deli and Cafe in Slade Lane, Abbotskerswell.