PEOPLE interested in shaping the future of Studley are invited to join the steering group of its Neighbourhood Plan.
A Neighbourhood Plan offers a community unprecedented powers to shape the future of any development in the area.
It gives local people greater control over new buildings while protecting and possibly enhancing local amenities and historic sites.
At a parish council meeting on Tuesday councillors agreed to approach Stratford District Council to have the village designated as a Neighbourhood Plan area.
However councillors were at pains to note that while they would have a role, it would be up to the public to shape the final plan.
“It’s all about what the residents want and it must be resident led rather than council led,” said parish chairman Coun Paul Beaman.
The final plan would be fully examined by an independent inspector and then put to a local referendum for approval.
Only then would it then be adopted.
A similar exercise in Alvechurch has taken five years but locals are convinced the process has been worth it thanks to the benefits it brings.
Their plan is expected to go forward for final approval at the local elections in May this year.
Those wishing to shape Studley well into the 21st Century by volunteering for the steering committee should contact parish clerk Lesley Gailey on 01527 853204.
