TODAY, Wednesday, sees the start of the final six-week consultation period on the Stroud district local plan.

Stroud District Council says the draft plan is focussed on delivering a 'sustainable local economy, with a balance of employment, homes and services' for the next 18 years.

It supports the growth and regeneration of key areas including Stroud, Stonehouse, Dursley, the Cotswold canals corridor and Sharpness Docks.

It has been developed and fine-tuned over the past four years.

SDC leader Geoff Wheeler said: "This draft plan runs to 2031 with the ambition of delivering two new jobs for every new home identified within it.

"We are looking at creating an environment for up to 6,200 jobs, with new employment land and support for existing employment sites, to accompany the 2,450 additional homes which need to be built."

Comments on the blueprint - agreed recently by SDC - will be submitted to the Government as part of its examination.

The public consultation runs from today until 5pm on Wednesday, October 16.

Documents can be viewed on the council's website, at Ebley Mill, in libraries and parish council offices.

Comments can be made at www.stroud.gov.uk/consult or by filling in a comments form and emailing it to local.plan@stroud.gov.uk or sending it to the Planning Strategy Team, Stroud District Council, Ebley Mill, Stroud, GL5 4UB.