PUBLIC consultation has begun over a plan which could help shape a village's future.

After five years' preparation, Harden Village Council has submitted a proposed neighbourhood plan to Bradford Council.

Now feedback is being sought from residents and organisations.

The village council worked with the community on putting together the draft document, which if adopted would give people a greater say over development in the area and would be used to determine planning applications.

Harden Village Council vice-chair and member of the neighbourhood plan project team, Councillor Kay Kirkham, said: "We are delighted to be offering our draft local plan for consultation.

"A lot of work has gone into this and we look forward to hearing people’s thoughts."

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw – Bradford Council's portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport – said: "This is a great opportunity for people to have a say on the vision for Harden. I encourage anyone with a stake in the area to take part in the consultation."

Following the consultation, Bradford Council will submit the plan for independent examination and then a local referendum could be held over its adoption.

Consultation documents can be viewed, and comments made, at bradford.gov.uk/consultations.

Alternatively, paper copies are available to view by appointment at Bingley Library, City Library in Bradford and the Bradford Council customer service centre in Britannia House.

The consultation ends at 5pm on August 15.

Meanwhile, another neighbourhood plan – for Oxenhope – has been adopted.

Work on the document began in 2014 and following the processes of consultation and examination, it went to a referendum in May when it received an 82.3 per cent vote in favour.

Councillor Ken Eastwood, chair of Oxenhope Village Council, said: "The neighbourhood plan seeks to ensure sustainable development within Oxenhope – meeting the needs of current and future generations whilst protecting and enhancing the natural, built and historic environment.

"The plan was developed by the village council over several years, with extensive input by residents of Oxenhope. Its policies reflect local views, shaped through consultations and detailed discussions."

A plan has also been adopted for Ilkley.

Councillor Ross-Shaw said: "Congratulations go to all those who have put in almost a decade of hard work to help shape the future development of Ilkley and Oxenhope.

"These plans will assist planning committees to make decisions which reflect people’s views on how their local areas should be developed and protected."