RESIDENTS in villages near Selby are having more say in the plans for their area, by developing Neighbourhood Plans.

Villagers in Appleton Roebuck and Acaster Selby will be involved in setting out where new houses can be built, and other planning decisions in the area.

The first step is for Appleton Roebuck Parish Council to agree the geographic area that the Neighbourhood Plan will cover, namely the parish boundary of Appleton Roebuck and Acaster Selby.

Coun Richard Musgrave, who represents the Appleton Roebuck ward, said: “I am a big believer that local people should have an input into the planning process and I am delighted that Appleton Roebuck Parish Council have decided to develop a Neighbourhood Plan.

“It is the latest in a number of proactive decisions that the parish council has taken in recent years with regards to planning and housing in the village.

“Once adopted, the plan will sit alongside Selby District Council’s Core Strategy and have real influence when planning applications in the parish are considered.”

Consultation on the area application runs until 5pm on Monday, September 16, at selby.gov.uk

Residents who have not already done so are urged to submit their comments regarding the designation of the area.

To contact the parish council secretary, email parishclerk1@btinternet.com