A COCKERMOUTH town councillor has called for the Neighbourhood Plan to be brought back on the agenda.

"This was discussed by the previous council," said Councillor Alan Smith.

"After the elections we have five new councillors so I think we should bring this back on the agenda.

"I think we should invite Simon Sharp (Allerdale Council's building and control manager) to tell us about it an educate our new councillors."

Calls for a Neighbourhood Plan - a community-driven development masterplan - have previously been rejected by the town council. Concerns included its effectiveness, cost and the work involved.

Councillor Stephen Barnes said: "I think this is an excellent idea but I would have expected us to wait until the Local Plan Part 2 is out before we consider it. Although I don't feel equipped to consider the local plan without some back ground training."

"I think having Mr Sharp along to educate us a little before making any decisions would be very helpful," said Councillor Richard Watson.

"A Neighbourhood Plan could be as broad or as narrow as we want."

It was decided to ask Mr Sharp to talk to the council about the local plan and also Neighbourhood Plans.