A document which could lead to millions of pounds worth of investment in St Neots is set to take another step forward.

The town’s Neighbourhood Plan has been scheduled for independent examination for seven days from January 12, where its policies will be assessed by chartered town planner Ann Skippers. She has more than 20 years of experience in a career that has spanned local government, academia and private consultancy.

Organised by the planning services team at Huntingdonshire District Council, the plan for development, regeneration, and conservation of the town will need to be considered before progressing to a referendum.

If more than 50 per cent of participants vote in favour, it will form part of planning policy for the town.

It would allow the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – money paid by developers – to be uncapped and 25 per cent of any CIL charges, up from 15 per cent, will go directly to the town.

Ed Reilly, St Neots town clerk, said: “The development of the St Neots Neighbourhood Plan has been a focus not only at the town council but across the whole community.

“We look forward to seeing the independent examination report, with the hope we will then be able to ask the community to vote on the plan contents and put the town in charge of its development for the first time.”

The main threads from a consultation were traffic issues, mainly the A428, a desire to have a wider range of high street and boutique-style shops, and the importance of the town’s parks and green spaces.

INFORMATION: For more, go to www.stneots-tc.gov.uk/stneotsplan.