A key stage in the timetable for Hertsmere's Local Plan is to be launched -- giving people another chance to comment on the future of their borough.

Residents are invited to make more comments on the revised version of the Hertsmere Local Plan which will be on display all over the borough from the end of this month, so that the council can hear what residents think of any amendments.

The plan has been updated after the council heard resident's views on the Draft Local Plan, which was first drawn up two years ago.

Following vigorous campaigning by Borehamwood's countryside campaigners, councillors voted earlier this year to oppose housebuilding on Green Belt land at Vale/Byron Avenue and Old Haberdashers' rugby ground in Croxdale Road -- originally suggested as sites by planning officers to meet the need for 4,600 new homes for Hertsmere by 2011.

The Local Plan sets out the policies and proposals on housing, development and other issues, that will guide Hertsmere through to 2011 and it is expected to be adopted by the year 2000.

The new plan will go 'on deposit' for eight weeks from July 31 to September 25.

A council spokeswoman said: "If you live, work or run a business in Hertsmere, it is important for you to get involved if you want a say in the borough's future.

"After the consultation period the council will go on to consider all comments and may try to negotiate with objectors to agree any alterations to the Plan.

"Even if you have commented previously on the Draft Local Plan, it is important to register your comments at this stage because only those who raise objections during this period will have the right to appear at the Public Local Inquiry into the Plan. If you do not wish to appear at the Public Local Inquiry you may instead choose to have your objections dealt with by written representation."

Any alterations will be made available for public inspection before any unresolved objections are considered at a Public Local Inquiry, due to be held next spring.

The Plan is available for inspection at the Civic Offices in Elstree Way, Borehamwood, the Aldenham Parish Council's offices at the Radlett Centre in Radlett, and all borough libraries.

A copy of the Hertsmere Local Plan can be bought from Borehamwood's Civic Offices for £22 (£25 by post). For more information contact Hertsmere's principal planning officer Richard Grove or one of the council's policy and environement team on 0181 207 2277, ext 5810.

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