THE latest and final round of public consultation on proposed changes to the final draft of the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan is due to end on Thursday, December 3.

North Devon Council and Torridge District Council are carrying out the consultation in response to significant changes to recent national planning policy. The reviewed and finalised draft plan will be presented to the Secretary of State for examination.

The changes being made relate to: providing affordable housing on development sites; a new draft policy relating to starter homes on exception sites; new policy options for wind energy development.

Lead Member for planning and development at Torridge District Council Cllr Peter Watson said: “We are nearing the end of the process of Local Plan preparation, prior to its submission for examination and then adoption by both Torridge and North Devon Councils. It’s important that the councils respond to changes in Government policy and through considering the comments of our communities frame locally relevant polices that will guide future development.

“There is now a final opportunity for residents and anyone with an interest in the area to tell us what they think of the proposals and new policy options, which we hope people will take advantage of.”

Residents can view the consultation documents and have their say using the councils’ online consultation page.

Paper copies are also available at the councils’ offices and in libraries across North Devon and Torridge. Follow the plan’s progress online at new.devon.gov.uk/northdevonnews or on Twitter.