THE second stage in preparing the planning blueprint for the Yorkshire Dales National Park has now been published and is available for comment.

The Second Deposit Local Plan document is intended to provide everyone with the opportunity to view the proposed changes to Local Plan policy.

These will form the basis for determining all planning decisions for new buildings and land use within the national park.

The changes in the second draft are as a result of representations and suggestions from the public. Not all objections were taken on board, and comments to this new document can only be accepted on the changes.

The first draft brought out in June 2002 generated more than 1,500 objections and letters of support relating to proposed policies from 248 organisations and individuals.

As a result of these, the new plan document contains a number of changes, including the proposed introduction of a policy where farm buildings may be permitted for conversion into local housing for rent; and up to 40 additional settlements to be included as areas where barn conversions will be allowed for local housing.

Other changes include the authority seeking the provision of informal playing space - or the provision of a commuted sum towards off-site facilities - on housing sites of sufficient size.

Another change related to the advertising of agricultural dwellings should they become unoccupied, application for sub-division of listed buildings and changes to the re- occupation of former houses erected prior to 1800.

Other changes relate to employment, farming, transport and access, sport and recreation, the community, natural environment, visitor facilities, utilities and general policies.

Peter Stockton, strategic planning officer at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: "The publication of the Second Deposit Local Plan is a real opportunity for individuals and organisations to have their say on the future of planning in the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

"It contains a number of brave new policies that seek to address the issue of affordable housing and local housing needs. It also includes policies that will provide a framework for the development of new businesses and enterprises.

"We now would encourage anyone with an interest in the Yorkshire Dales National Park to take this opportunity and come forward with their support or objections. It really is your chance to make a difference to the future of the area," he said.

Copies of the Second Deposit Local Plan are now available for reference in local libraries, national park authority offices and national park centres.

Copies have also been sent to parish councils and a wide range of other local groups and organisations, which have an interest in the area.

All objections or letters of support must be received at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority's office in Bainbridge by noon on Tuesday July 29.

Once the six-week consultation period is complete, all outstanding objections to the first and second deposits will be referred to a Local Plan inquiry, followed by the publication of the inspector's report.

The Local Plan will be modified again and placed on deposit for further consultation before the final plan is adopted in 2004.