THE town must adopt a Neighbourhood Plan if it wants a more prosperous future, according to Droitwich Spa Business Forum.

The group, which looks after the interests of town firms and the local economy, is urging Droitwich Spa Town Council to back proposals to form a plan in the coming months.

A Neighbourhood Plan is a government led scheme that sees residents have more of a say on future housing and business developments. It would replace the current Town Plan and apparently have more legal standing.

The town council is set to discuss the possibility of a Neighbourhood Plan when its planning committee meets at St Richard’s House, Victoria Square, on Monday, October 29 at 5.45pm.

The authority applied for a grant of £20,000 offered to communities to be forerunners in the production of such a plan. However, people at the business forum are now worried that the council might back down from the scheme and is urging it to forge ahead for the good of economic growth in the area.

John Dudley, from Droitwich Spa Business Forum, said: “A Neighbourhood Plan would be very important for a town like Droitwich. It could help communities shape a future and help businesses grow in the right areas.

“One advantage is it can speed up planning approval for new businesses or for change of use applications to ensure a business is up and running or can continue profitable trading.

“Also, it can ensure that businesses are located in the right areas for the maximum benefit of the firm and the community.

“These are just a few benefits for businesses to be involved in a Neighbourhood Plan. I would urge the town council to back the plan in a positive manner and help Droitwich be at the forefront of government legislation.”