RESIDENTS living in the Pendle part of West Craven are being given a last opportunity have their say about the area's new development blueprint.

Pendle's Local Plan has been published today (Friday); but ahead of it going before an independent inspector and its planned formal adoption in 2025, Pendle Borough Council is giving people a final opportunity up until early December to make comments.

Once adopted, the plan will shape development in Pendle - including in Barnoldswick and Earby, for the next 15 years; it will give developers a steer into what and will not be acceptable in the borough, and will be used by the council planning officers to decide whether to approve or refuse applications for planning proposals.

Councillor Asjad Mahmood, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “The Local Plan will help to guide development in Pendle up to 2040. It will be used daily by planning officers to help them decide whether to approve or refuse applications for planning permission.

“We consider The Local Plan to be effective in meeting our development needs and infrastructure requirements. We feel it is justified when considered against the reasonable alternatives, is positively prepared and is consistent with national policy.”

Councillor Tom Whipp, the council’s executive member for planning and regulatory services, and member for Barnoldswick, said: “Now we need to know if our residents agree – especially those who have submitted comments in response to earlier consultations.

“If you live, or have interests in Pendle, please take time to read the plan and write to the council offering your support or objections.

“All the comments we receive will be looked at by an independent inspector.

“Anyone submitting an objection to the plan must state the reasons why and indicate how it could be changed to overcome their objection.”

Philip Spurr, Pendle Borough Council’s Director of Place, added: “The plan contains 61 different policies and has been a number of years in the making.

“This is the fourth public consultation we have held and the very last chance for people to have their say.”

Copies of The Local Plan are available to view at Number One Market Street in Nelson and all local libraries (including the mobile library). If you prefer, you can view the plan and all supporting documents online at www.pendle.gov.uk/LPpublication The deadline for all comments is 5pm on Friday, December 6.