A neighbourhood plan that will help shape the future of Corsham and give residents more input is in its early stages.

The plan will be produced by local people and be voted on in a referendum.

If it is approved by a majority, it will be given weight by Wiltshire Council when making decisions on planning applications.

Much of the initial work will be carried out by six task groups covering the following areas: communication; housing; business and economy; heritage and environment; transport; and health, education and wellbeing.

It is thought that the process will take up to two years to complete, during which time there will be extensive community consultation. This will start towards the end of this year and details will be available online and in the town’s notice boards.

Councillor Peter Pearson, chairman of Corsham’s Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, said: “We are embracing the opportunity to have more say in how our town develops over the coming years.

“For far too long we have had little say in what happens in the town, how many and what kind of houses are built where, what industrial/ commercial/retail development we want and need for jobs, or how our environment and heritage can best be protected and improved.

“There is much to do and we can only be successful with the help and support of the community.”