LEOMINSTER residents can have their say on a plan which sets out possible developments in the area over the next 20 years from next month.

The final draft of the Leominster Area Neighbourhood Plan (LANP) will be made available to residents from December 10 with a formal consultation launched at a meeting on the same date.

Printed copies of the plan – which sets out ideas for the town under a number of headings including sustainable, accessible and distinctive Leominster – can be viewed at the Town Council office, Leominster Library, Leominster Community Centre and the town's Tourist Information Centre.

Councillor Peter Ellis, chairman of the LANP steering group, said: "The 25 policies in the LANP provide a framework for development in Leominster over the next 20 years that will ensure a sustainable future for the parish.

"When the plan has been approved by an independent examiner and voted for by a simple majority of voting residents it will become part of the statutory local development plan which must be adhered to by all developers.

"Without a neighbourhood plan residents have little or no say in developments in their area. The active involvement of as many people as possible in the formal consultation is therefore crucial. The plan has been formulated by a steering group made up of councillors and residents."

The formal consultation starts on Wednesday December 10, with a reception for steering group members at 6pm at the Town Council office.

Copies of the plan will also be available at Grange Court where there will be an audio version for the visually impaired and all households in the Leominster Parish will receive a summary leaflet in the following week or two.

It can also be viewed online at leominsterplan.org and can be bought from the town council office for £6.

The consultation lasts until February 6 and a public meeting is planned for Saturday January 24 between 10am and 1pm, with a formal questions and answer session at 11am at Earl Mortimer College.

Drop-in events will also take place at other venues.