A SIGNIFICANT milestone has been reached in the preparation of a new Local Plan for the North York Moors National Park.

The plan will act as a guide decisions on planning applications up until the year 2035.

The Authority has sought views from members of the public, parish councils and various other organisations throughout the development process.

Feedback received during this period has helped inform the latest draft, which is the version that will be submitted to the Secretary of State for independent examination later this year. Prior to this, the Authority is carrying out a further round of consultation over a six week period running until Monday May 20.

Paul Fellows, Head of Strategic Policy at the North York Moors National Park Authority said: “The new Local Plan is an extremely important document for residents, businesses and visitors to the National Park. It covers everything from new affordable homes to protecting our dark skies, providing holiday accommodation and supporting sustainable communities.

“Completion of the Pre-Submission draft of the Local Plan is a significant milestone and I am grateful for all the contributions and comments we have received in response to previous consultations.

“We look forward to submitting the draft Plan to the Secretary of State at the end of this next consultation period, and expect the Public Examination to take place in Autumn 2019.”

The draft Plan, together with various supporting documents, is available at www.northyorkmoors.org.uk/localplan