Gargrave has moved a step closer to having its own neighbourhood plan.

Following a six-week consultation, the village was designated a neighbourhood area by Craven District Council.

The development of a neighbourhood plan, which is still in its very early stages, will now be progressed by the parish council with help from the district council.

A neighbourhood plan, which will have to comply with Craven District Council’s Local Plan, is aimed at giving parishes a greater say in development in their areas.

The parish council will now talk to those living and working in the neighbourhood area before advertising its proposals.

Any plan will be subject to independent examination and a referendum before it is adopted.