A DRAFT plan to shape the future development in and around the Stockton area will be considered by councillors at a series of meetings next month.

The draft document sets out a vision for the future development of the Borough in relation to housing, the economy, community facilities and infrastructure up to 2032.

Members of Stockton Borough Council’s planning committee will be invited to comment on the draft when they meet on Thursday, November 3.

Council leader Bob Cook said: “The Local Plan is not about the Council proposing development; it is a plan to manage growth in the most sustainable way possible. The Borough’s population is projected to grow by over 20,000 people over the next 20 years and we need to plan for this, so that our residents have jobs and homes.

“With a Local Plan, the Council and its partners can plan for the right infrastructure such as new roads, health services, schools, waste and recycling services, and open spaces. We can also protect and enhance our heritage and ecological assets, improve our town centres and develop further our sport, recreation and leisure facilities.

“Once adopted, the Local Plan will be the starting point for consideration of planning applications for the development and use of land and ultimately, it will contribute to how we deliver our priorities to make Stockton-on-Tees a better place for everybody.

The document is up for consideration by Cabinet on November 10, and Full Council on November 17, when councillors will be asked to approve a draft for a nine-week public consultation.