MOST residents of the Dean will be unaware that an important issue is taking place; that is the planning of local areas consultation. It is called the Allocations Development Plan Document. This is the only chance residents will have to influence what happens in their local area for the period up to 2026. The consultation closes on July 27th and I'm so sorry not to have made people aware sooner.

Basically where its main purpose is to point developers to areas of land which they can build on (a bit like the old District Local Plan), nevertheless it is also important in that it covers protection of open spaces, special sites, development boundaries, etc. So, if you live near to something which you want to protect: then say something now!

From my own local perspective, I urge all the people of Coleford to get involved and say something. Even if it is just to protect the open landscapes around Coleford town such as around Poolway and the Whitecliff Valley. All are attractive areas to see when visiting the area.

Remember, there are 650 designated homes coming to Coleford under the Core Strategy plan – where will all these go?

It is stated that most of the sites are already allocated, carried forward from the old District Plan. But you may want to challenge that if there are better sites available.

Also, those who use and rely on Coleford, and travel in from outlying areas, for their shopping may well want to protect the car parking capacity of the town.

Don't forget that the car parking at Bank Street is currently planned to be replaced by housing.

Is housing on this site more important than the overall strategic well-being of the town centre used by all of us?

If no-one can park including tourists, no-one will shop.

Anyway, even if you only want to say a few words to keep your play area/open space opposite where you live then say something. Otherwise council planners will just do what they think is best not what local residents want. Contact Nigel Gibbons at Forest of Dean District Council, planning policy team, or, via internet at fdean.gov.uk then tabs on left to Environment and Planning Local Development Frameword Allocations Development Plan.

P.S You could also contact the town council and make your feelings known to them to influence their submissions (if it is not too late)

– Walt Williams, The Links, Coleford.