COUNCILLORS in Ely have approved the city s Masterplan ahead of its anticipated public unveiling in the Autumn. A panel of nine councillors on the Strategic Development Committee met to give the document approval for release to the public, bringing an end

COUNCILLORS in Ely have approved the city's Masterplan ahead of its anticipated public unveiling in the Autumn.

A panel of nine councillors on the Strategic Development Committee met to give the document approval for release to the public, bringing an end to more than a year of rigorous planning, tweaking and consultation.

The document will go forward for inspection by the public over a two-month period between September and November.

The Masterplan, which sets out the future of the city for the next 20 years, looks at a range of issues that will affect the city, including Ely's identity, green spaces, transport, shops and jobs.

During the consultation, the public will be able to have their say on what they think of the ideas in the plan, and will be able to shape how the city will develop over the next generation.

Councillor Peter Moakes, chairman of Strategic Development Committee, said: "I think we all agree that the process we have been through so far on the Ely Masterplan has been the most detailed and exhaustive of any work the council has ever undertaken. We are now nearing the end of the beginning of the process but there is still a huge amount that the public can contribute.

"We have shown how much we have learnt during the last year. We have spoken to many experts, asked the public what they think on options and taken on board a lot of evidence. This has helped us to set realistic growth targets for the long-term and better understand what is really important for the future of Ely. As we have said many times before, it is vital we get this process right as we have only one shot at developing our great city - let's not waste it.