The draft Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan has been published for public consultation for a minimum of six weeks.

The draft plan was presented to the cabinet of Rutland County Council at their first meeting following the elections last month.

This follows the announcement that the Wing Neighbourhood Plan is in the works after the introduction of the Langham, Uppingham, and Oakham and Barleythorpe.

Cllr Paul Browne (Lib Dem), portfolio holder for planning andproperty, said: "Following public consultation, the draft plan and representations received will be submitted for independent examination. The strategic director of places will then be authorised to appoint an independent examiner in consultation with the Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan Group.

"Following the receipt of the examiner's report, the strategic director of places in consultation with the portfolio holder for planning and property be authorised to publish the county council's decision notice, updating the Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan and undertake a referendum.

"Subject to the outcome of that referendum, the strategic director of places in consultation with the portfolio holder for planning and property will then be authorised to make the Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan part of the development plan for Rutland."

The Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan has been produced by Whissendine Parish Council to be used in the determination of planning applications. A steering group has been formed, and this ensures that residents and local groups are involved in producing policy, based on evidence and local knowledge and views.

The plan helps to ensure that growth is sustainable, but does not make site allocations. It does, however, make provisions for growth in its policies, including for employment, residential and community facilities. At the same time, there are policies on design, environment and infrastructure to ensure that development supports the sustainability of the parish.

If approved, the Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan will be in force until the end of 2035 or until an updated plan is made before that date. The Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan will be reviewed regularly to assess whether an update is necessary.

The Whissendine Neighbourhood Plan can be seen online.