A town council is appealing for people to have their say over green areas they believe should be protected from development.

Hambleton District Council is starting work on a new Local Plan which will set the framework for the planning of new developments in the area up to 2035.

This will identify land which would be suitable for housing, employment, mixed use and recreation in the 15 years from 2020.

One of the first steps in preparing the plan is establishing what land is available within Hambleton District and to ask local people to identify areas of local green space which they feel are demonstrably special to their communities and should be protected from new development.

Mayor Cllr Christine Mollard said Bedale Town Council had prepared a map highlighting areas of local green space which we believe are special to the people of the town. Residents can view the map in the council offices at Bedale Hall or on their webpage on www.bedaleonline.co.uk

Cllr Mollard said:”The Council is very keen to hear the views of people in the town as this plan will affect the way that Bedale grows and changes in the near future.

“Anyone who lives in Bedale and would like to nominate an area, or wants to add their voice to the process, contact us.

“You can do this by letter, phone, email or in person. Bedale Town Council Office is open Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday mornings.

“ There is not much time so please submit comments before Monday 31st August 2015 so that the Council may have time to consider them before the deadline in September, set by Hambleton District Council."