TOWNSPEOPLE are being urged to speak up now on proposed developments as the deadline for comments expires next week.

So far Wychavon District Council says it has received just 10 comments from Droitwich people on the Local Plan, which highlights land which could be used for housing and retail use up to 2011.

Sites include the controversial Worcestershire Hotel, where an application has been submitted to build 96 apartments, and the Market Hall, which Waitrose is proposing to bulldoze to make way for a new store.

Both proposals have stirred up much conflict in the town, yet the district says it has received only five letters about the Worcestershire Hotel and one about the Market Hall. Planning policy officer, Dave Tomaney, said: "There have been letters which we have received but haven't yet entered into the system, however 10 is a lot less than we expected.

"I think some people are under the impression that if they have commented on the plan at earlier stages they don't have to again but that is not the case.

"Unfortunately legislation says opinions given before cannot be carried over or put to any inquiry into the plan.

"Therefore, I urge residents to have a look at this stage and to get their views in to us as soon as possible."

Residents have until 5pm next Wednesday, August 7, submit their opinions to the council. Mr Tomaney added: "Supporting comments are just as important as objections in assessing what people think of the Local Plan.

"We want to make sure it is right for Wychavon and value residents' views on how we can make this happen."

A copy of the Local Plan and comments received so far are available at the Droitwich One Stop Shop, in High Street.

Views on the document should be put, in writing, to Local Plan, Head of Planning Jack Hegarty, Wychavon District Council, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, WR10 1PT.