RESIDENTS have been urged to sign up to have their say over a plan on the future of Bingley.

Bingley Town Council (BTC) has submitted an initial neighbourhood area application to Bradford Council to start preparing a neighbourhood development plan for the town, following a public consultation.

The plan, which could take up to three years to develop, will create policies to shape future development in the area.

It may cover elements such as history and heritage, business, the economy, housing, traffic, recreation and leisure.

It would also include a proposed boundary for the town’s neighbourhood area and a brief statement on why the boundary is appropriate.

Under the 2011 Localism Act, neighbourhood development plans allow residents to have a greater say on any form of development in their communities. These powers were created by the Government.

When completed, Bingley’s neighbourhood plan will form part of Bradford Council’s Local Plan.

It will also entitle BTC to 25 per cent of any Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) on new developments.

BTC is holding an event for interested parties, called Developing a Neighbourhood Plan for Bingley, on Tuesday, November 21, from 6.30pm to 8pm, at Church House, Old Main Street, Bingley.

The public meeting will provide more information about what is involved in preparing a neighbourhood plan and the types of policies that will be included.

Councillor Ros Dawson, BTC chairman, said the town council was looking for people with enthusiasm and commitment to sign up.

She said: “It is about seeing what we can do to help shape the future of Bingley.

“It is a great opportunity to have some say on what kind of development goes on in Bingley.

“It is not about the numbers of people, but their commitment.

“We want a good combination of councillors and other people.

“It is a long and democratic process. It is not about short-term gain, it’s about working long and hard.”

The meeting will also provide a chance to include what issues are important to Bingley, and to meet others who want to be part of the team.

At the event, BTC will be asking attendees to complete a form to indicate the level of involvement they wish to have and to detail the relevant skills and experiences they could contribute to the project.

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After the meeting, BTC’s planning committee will appoint members to its neighbourhood plan working group.

There are restrictions on the number of members the working group can have, so BTC will also be looking for members of a wider neighbourhood plan team.

To register for the meeting, or for more information, email enquiries@bingleytowncouncil.gov.uk