Residents urged to comment on consultation as Swaffham neighbourhood plan is published

People in Swaffham are being encouraged to have their say on a new neighbourhood plan for the town.

The draft document has been published after many months of work by a steering group led by town councillors.

And a six-week public consultation is now underway for residents to comment on the document's future vision for the town.

Town mayor Colin Houghton, who chaired the plan's steering group, said: “Every single comment made will be taken into account at the end of the consultation period.

“The steering group have got an onerous task in sifting through the comments to decide what needs to be changed.

“We cannot, of course, promise to change things to suit everybody, as there will be no doubt conflicting views on certain topics.

“Our pledge though is to carefully consider what people are saying, as we would be foolish to ignore any comments. At the end of the day, though, we will have to make a decision before the next draft goes off to independent examination.”

The document sets out community leaders' vision for how they believe Swaffham should develop over the next 20 years.

An exhibition of the plan's ideas was held on Wednesday and members of the public now have until August 31 to have their say.

Town clerk Richard Bishop said it is hoped a referendum on the final document, which has to be examined by a planning inspector before it is finalised, will take place early next year.

But he added: “We must have your comments now though, as it is so important for everyone in the town to take some time out to look at this document, and let us know what you think, as this will help shape the town over the next 20 years. Don’t miss your chance.”

Copies of the plan can be viewed at the town hall, the library, the community centre and the Swaffham Museum.

The document is also available via the town council's website, www.swaffhamtowncouncil.gov.uk.