On 28 October, at a council meeting, it was agreed by majority vote that the consultation, which was initially due to close on 22 December, will be extended by a month. 

Council officers will also intend to provide additional engagement opportunities for communities during the consultation period, as part of the extension. Further details will be announced once arrangements have been confirmed.

The proposed LDP3 takes an infrastructure-first approach to future development across East Renfrewshire over the next decade. 

This equates to planning ahead for the needs of communities to support development, such as schools, healthcare and community facilities, transport and active travel, parks as well as green spaces. 

The plan also sets out proposals for new homes and businesses; biodiversity enhancements and areas safeguarded from development.

Following the conclusion of the consultation, representations will be considered in detail. 

After this, a report and any recommendations will be put before councillors during the course of next year. 

The current programme of drop-in sessions will proceed, with sessions going ahead across East Renfrewshire to give people the opportunity to talk about the proposed plan and ask questions directly of the development planning team of the council. 

Residents can go to whichever session is most convenient for them, with officers being available to answer queries on every area of the proposed LDP3.

Council leader Owen O’Donnell said: “Community engagement is absolutely vital as we develop the next Local Development Plan. 

“We have heard from many residents and communities who told us they needed more time to consider the proposals and make their views known. 

“We have listened to that feedback, and extending the consultation until 22 January gives people that additional time.”

O’Donnell added: “These proposals will help shape East Renfrewshire for years to come, so it’s important that people have the time and opportunity to understand what is being proposed and have their say. 

“We also want to look at what more we can do to support communities to engage with the process, and officers will now explore additional engagement opportunities during the extended consultation period.”

All consultation information and supporting materials, such as details of how to submit a formal representation, can be found here.