RESIDENTS in Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge are being urged to have their say next month on Neighbourhood Plan which could set the towns agenda for more than a decade.

On September 20 residents will have the chance to vote in a referendum on the plan, which was created by residents, Burnham and Highbridge Town Council and Burnham Without Parish Council, to decide whether it should be adopted as part of the planning policy for the area.

The plan's aim is to protect open green spaces, set criteria for redevelopment proposals and make residential developments safe from flood risks.

Speaking on behalf of Burnham-on-Sea and Highbridge Town Council, Cllr Phil Harvey, who chaired the group of residents who drew up the plan, said: “If the majority of residents vote ‘yes’ to the plan it will help us to create together a wonderful environment to live, work and play in, that is fit for the 21st century and beyond.

“By having our own plan we’ll be able to have some control over our two town centres and have our say on what new buildings and homes would look like.

"In addition, we would influence what infrastructure should be provided. Sedgemoor District Council would be obliged to use the plan when determining future planning applications for the towns.

“However, if the majority vote ‘no’ in the referendum we will not be able to adopt the plan and only Sedgemoor policies will apply, as they currently do now."

Councillor Harvey says if approved the plan will bring 'real benefits' to the community including protecting open spaces in both towns from development by designating them as local green spaces.

He said Apex Park, Southwell Gardens, Marine Cove, Manor Gardens and Crosses Pen are just a few of a number of areas that would be given extra protection under the plans so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

“The plan will be good for business and employment too by supporting the retention of retail and work opportunities in Highbridge town centre," Cllr Harvey said.

"There’s support as well for green policies in the new Isleport Business Park and with any new housing being built. For example, there is encouragement for the provision of points for charging electric cars."

Councillor Harvey said the plan also aims to 'enhance' the environment for residents with policies to ensure new homes are built to high design standards, new streets and paths will be safe to use and flood mitigation measures will be put in place to protect new homes and businesses.

“It’s very important for everyone in the area to cast their vote on September 20, so local residents can have a say in the future of the area, how it is shaped and how it grows," Cllr Harvey said.

"We can also help ensure our environment is protected and enhanced, that businesses continue to thrive and that the community can be kept safe for the benefit of all and to enable our children and grandchildren to flourish.”

The plan in full can be seen online at burnhamandhighbridgeneighbourhoodplan.org.

Residents can also view paper copies at the town council offices, Burnham Library, Highbridge Library, Highbridge Community Hall, BiARS and the Community Centre in Berrow Road.

All those eligible to vote in the referendum will be sent voting cards shortly and postal voters will receive their ballot papers on September 6 or 7.

For more information about the plan call 01278 238168, visit burnhamandhighbridgeneighbourhoodplan.org or visit facebook.com/NeighbourhoodPlanBOS.