DENBIGHSHIRE residents have been urged to get involved in a county-wide development plan which could have a huge impact on how their communities are shaped over the coming years.

Denbighshire County Council is currently consulting with the public on its Draft Local Development Plan (LDP) Preferred Strategy which sets out the key land use issues that need to be addressed in the county up to 2033.

The plan, which was made amid concerns over affordable homes for families and young people in Denbighshire, lays out the overall level of growth needed, where that growth should be directed to, sketch proposals for each area and a number of strategic policies.

It would set a target of land for 3,775 homes, to meet a housing requirement of 3,275 homes. The plan would also designate 68 hectares of employment land to accommodate a forecasted land requirement of 47.6 hectares.

A public consultation over the plan, which is expected to be adopted in 2021, ends on August 30.

Chris Ruane, MP for the Vale of Clwyd, stressed that members of the public without internet could be unaware of the consultation and miss the opportunity to comment.

“I would encourage residents to get involved in this important consultation exercise as the deadline is August 30, which leaves very little time to ensure you get your views across to the local authority,” Mr Ruane said.

“It has fallen across the summer holidays when many people will have been away. Those who do not have access to the internet could well be unaware that this important consultation is taking place.

“I have requested an extension on the consultation and that further drop in sessions are held so people can better understand the process and the implications for their area. In the meantime I would urge people to access the website and look through the proposals to ensure they are fully aware of what is taking place.”

Mark Young, Denbighshire council’s lead member for the LDP, said there will be further public surveys about the plan in future but that it is important that residents send their comments in early.

“The plan needs to focus on housing for all,” Cllr Young said. “It is really important we get the right number of houses in the right places, but also the right mix of housing. Data shows that there is a shortage of one- and two-bedroom homes so we cannot provide one type of housing.

“This consultation is an opportunity for residents to comment on the proposals suggested, whether positive or negative.”

To view the consultation, log on to https://countyconversation.denbighshire.gov.uk/project/447 or visit your nearest public library and ask to view the proposals