YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED What is a local plan? A written document with a map and set of inset plans, detailing the Council’s policies and proposals for development and land use throughout Harris for up to ten years. Why should I be interested? It will affect everyone who lives, works or plays in Harris. It is a guide to private and public investment and determining planning applications, reconciling development with the environment. It also interprets the Structure Plan, providing more detailed policies at the local level. What does consultative draft mean? This is the first draft of the Harris Local Plan which is published for consultation purposes. The consultation period lasts from 27th October to 8th December 1997. This is a less formal stage in the preparation of the plan and the public and other interested parties are invited to ‘comment’ on it’s contents. How can I find out about the plan? NOTICES PUBLIC MEETINGS "DROP IN" EXHIBITIONS Notices have been displayed and advertisements placed in local newspapers Public meetings will be held at the following locations: Leverburgh School, 27th October 8pm. Scalpay Community Hall, 5th November 7pm. Sir E Scott School (Gym), 13th November 7pm. Less formal ‘drop in’ exhibitions will be held at: Cliasmol School, 3rd November 7pm. Manish School, 11th November 7pm. Seilabost School, 20th November 7pm. Further to this you can call in at the Council Offices in Tarbert, Tuesdays or Thursdays between 10am to 2pm. Or telephone the Tarbert Council Office and make an alternative appointment. Where can I see the plan? Copies are available at all Council Offices, at the library in Tarbert and with the mobile library, with Community Councils, at the public meetings and drop in sessions. Why should I comment It is important that you comment, whether you support or oppose any of the policies, proposals and opportunities in the plan, otherwise the Council cannot be certain of local opinion. How can I comment? You can comment, objecting or supporting, on any policy, proposal or opportunity in the plan. You are recommended to use the forms (available from the Council Offices, or any of the places where the plan is displayed). For your comments to count, they must be received by 5pm on 8th December 1997. What happens then? All comments are considered and if appropriate the plan is amended. A finalised plan is then published and placed ‘on deposit’ for six weeks, when everyone has one more chance to formally object or support the policies, proposals and opportunities in the plan.