Details of the plan that will shape the future development of Down Ampney over the next eight years have been revealed.

The parish council has submitted its Neighbourhood Development Plan to Cotswold District Council (CDC).

It sets out a vision for the future of the village until 2031 and proposes nine policies to be used alongside the Cotswold District Council Local Plan to determine planning applications in the area.

The aim is to "retain a balance of historical buildings and features alongside sympathetic newer developments" while also recognising the "rural roots" and "vibrant community spirit" of the village which dates back to 2000BC.

The policies include the designation of the field in front of the Duke's Field development, as a Local Green Space called Duke's Meadow. This will offer the land extra protection from development.

The plan also sets out the promotion of a new Design Guide for new buildings in the parish. It is expected the district will allocate a maximum of 60 new homes to be built in the village over a 10-year period.

The document said: "There is a limit to the new housing that a rural village can absorb. The impact on the village of extensive development has had and will have a significant negative impact on rural roads, noise levels, air pollution, habitats, car parking and infrastructure."

The plan policies seek to address community concerns around key vistas, flooding and sewage, community facilities, climate change and green infrastructure.

Cllr Juliet Layton, CDC cabinet member for planning and regulatory services, said: "I would like to commend the hard work from all the volunteers who have developed this plan over recent years.

"They have also made commendable efforts to consult with residents and interested parties."

The parish council has been gathering views from residents since 2019 to help form the basis of the plan and has run two consultations on draft documents.

Interested parties are now being asked to submit their views on the submitted plan by noon on Friday, October 6, 2023.

Following the public consultation, the plan will be examined independently to ensure that it meets the conditions in the Localism Act and other relevant regulations, with public comments taken into account.

The examiner will then send recommendations to Cotswold District Council which will decide if it should go to a referendum.

If more than 50% of people then vote to support the plan, it will be accepted as an official document and used to decide future planning applications in Down Ampney Parish.

The plan can be viewed online at www.cotswold.gov.uk/planning-and-building/planning-policy/neighbourhood-planning/down-ampney-neighbourhood-plan/.

Comments can be made via a downloadable form and then emailed to neighbourhood.planning@cotswold.gov.uk or posted to: Neighbourhood Planning, Cotswold District Council, Trinity Road, Cirencester GL7 1PX.

Comments will also be accepted in writing including electronic, such as email, provided that a name and address are supplied. Anonymous comments cannot be accepted.

A hard copy of the plan is available from the council for £5 or for £15 with supporting evidence or can be viewed between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday at the Cotswold District Council offices.