RESIDENTS have been invited to have their say on major plans which will help shape the future of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge until 2032.

The neighbourhood plan has been compiled by councillors and key members of the community over the last three years and outlines future housing needs and potential development for both towns.

Councillor Phil Harvey, who helped compile the plan, said: “The purpose of the plan is to guide and shape development in the two towns in the future.

“The plan addresses several points.

“For Burnham these include retaining the viability of our town in the face of retail pressures, retaining the town’s Victorian character and ensuring it is suitable to visitors.”

Planners compiled the document with the involvement of residents and groups including Sedgemoor District Council, Burnham and Highbridge Town Council and Burnham-on-Sea Chamber of Trade.

Sedgemoor District Council received the plan last month and said it is satisfied it meets the requirements of Neighbourhood Planning Regulations.

A spokesman for Sedgemoor District Council said: “In accordance with neighbourhood planning regulations, as local planning authority, are publicising the plan for a minimum period of six weeks from October 10 until November 21.

“After this six week period, the next stage will be to appoint an independent examiner who will examine the submission plan. Should the examiner be satisfied, the submitted plan will proceed to a referendum.

“Further information regarding the referendum will be made available as soon as practicable.”

Residents can view the plan at Sedgemoor District Council’s offices at Bridgwater House, between 8.45am to 5pm from Monday to Friday or they can visit websites visitingsedgemoor.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplanning or burnhamandhighbridgeneighbourhoodplan.org.