HOUSEHOLDS across Ilkley are about to get their say on a plan which could help shape the future of the town and secure essential needs and services.

Residents have until December 31 to complete a questionnaire which is currently being distributed door-to-door across Ilkley, as Ilkley Parish Council gets the ball rolling on an Ilkley Neighbourhood Plan.

The questionnaire will survey the needs and wishes of those living in the town on a wide range of issues from facilities and the environment to housing, transport and employment.

It is hoped the eventual plan produced will work alongside local authority strategies, including Bradford Council’s forthcoming Local Plan, to influence future development in the area and the facilities and services needed.

In an effort to encourage participation from as many people as possible, forms returned will be eligible for entry in a prize draw to win a £100 luxury food hamper from Booths supermarket.

In a further bid to involve as much of the community as possible, a website is about to be launched, and a public meeting, entitled Our Ilkley, is being organised at the Clarke Foley Centre on Thursday, November 27, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm.

Councillor Bryan Websdale says members of the public will be able to find out more about the formulation of a Neighbourhood Plan at next month’s meeting, as well as being able to express their views and ask questions about the public engagement process.

He said: “We have branded the whole exercise 'We need to talk about Ilkley' in an attempt to try and stir some interest with local residents and thus hopefully obtain their views and thoughts on the future of our town.

“The questionnaire has of course started to be circulated to all homes across Ilkley.

“The website weneedto talkaboutilkley.com will go live this week and residents will be able to fill in the questionnaire online as well as find out more about the context of the Neighbourhood Plan and how Ilkley is responding.”

All of the completed forms can be posted in sealed black boxes which will be positioned in Ilkley Town Hall, Ilkley Library and at the Clarke Foley Centre in Cunliffe Road.