THE first steps to a Neighbourhood Plan in Longridge have been welcomed by the town’s borough councillors.

Ribble Valley Borough Council planning and development committee approved Longridge Town Council as the appropriate body to prepare the plan.

The government-backed scheme aims to give residents more power to influence planning and development in their towns.

Coun Ken Hind, who represents the Longridge area, said: “The role of the borough councillors will be to drive the Ribble Valley side of the preparation, and we have to make sure sufficient time, and effort, is put in by the Ribble Valley planning department which, at the moment, is under great pressure dealing with the borough-wide development plan, and a lot of appeals.

“Longridge needs to ensure we have sufficient bungalows and sheltered accommodation, adapted accommodation for our ageing population, flats and houses for those starting on the housing ladder, particularly those in the 18 to 24-year-old age group, as well as family homes.

“The Neighbourhood Plan will help to cater for local need.”