A FINAL chance to comment on York’s development plan for the next 15 years opened today.

The long-delayed Local Plan has been drawn up to show where thousands of homes can be built around York in the coming years. Some 60 years after the city last had a valid plan, the new version is almost ready to be submitted to a government planning inspector.

Now a final six week public consultation on the “publication draft” has begun, and any comments people make on the plan will go straight to the planning inspector to be considered alongside the council’s draft.

The city council is sending every house in York a leaflet explaining how to comment on the plan, and what issues the inspector will consider, and senior councillors have urged people to take part.

Current council leader David Carr said: “The Local Plan process has demonstrated our commitment to listen to voices from across York.

“And we want the government to hear your voice as well, which is why we’ve prepared the guide to help you make comments on the issues which the planning inspector will consider."

Lib Dem deputy leader Cllr Andrew Waller added: “We believe this is the right plan for York, promoting sustainable developments, better transport links, the city’s cultural offer and much more.

“This consultation is your opportunity to tell the government what you like and dislike about the Local Plan, so even if you’ve responded before it is important to do so again.”

Anyone who has not received a leaflet by Monday, February 26 can request one via localplan@york.gov.uk or 01904 552255.

The information is also available online at www.york.gov.uk/localplan or in person in any York library or the council’s West Offices.

The deadline for comments is Wednesday, April 4.