Over Hulton community can have say on neighbourhood plan

The Over Hulton Neighbourhood plan is to save the "village" lifestyle by stopping any developments not in line with the rest of the neighbourhood and by creating access to green spaces.

Now in consultation stage, the plan will tackle housing and design, landscape, green space and heritage assets, access, local services and facilities.

It will also look to remove or minimise flood risk and reduce carbon footprint, review opportunities for sustainable development and minimise the impact of development on local traffic and infrastructure.

Residents can now have their say in the plans, with any issues or things they think should be added.

Carolyn Bevis, on behalf of the neighbourhood plan forum, said: "It has taken us six years to get to this point since Covid delayed it.

“So, we are thrilled that it has got to this stage now where residents can have their say.”

The consultation will last for six weeks, after which an examiner will be appointed to consider the plan and decide whether it should move to referendum stage.

Ms Bevis said: “There are a lot of residents who want to retain the village of Over Hulton.

“We cannot stop any developments, but we can stop the inappropriate ones, and this gives residents a voice about what they want to see.

“Residents can come and give their feedback and let us know if there is something they want to see.”

The plan will also look to remove or minimise flood risk and reduce carbon footprint, review opportunities for sustainable development and minimise the impact of development on local traffic and infrastructure.

Ms Bevis said: “The main area is the heritage of the town as a lot of people do not want that to leave.

“If things like the Ryder Cup go ahead, then we will lose the heritage and the village will lose its identity, so people are concerned with that side of things.”

The plan will be in place for 20 years in total if it is elected after which a new one will need to be applied for.