A well-attended Real Planning for Lancaster on Saturday 26th October saw the launch of a fund-raising bid to push forward an alternative development plan for the town. Attendees agreed to submit a residents' planning proposal for the Canal Corridor site from Kingsway to Quarry Road. The plan will bring together many community-inspired ideas, based on a continuing public consultation which so far includes affordable, sustainable housing, multi-purpose outdoor and indoor recreational facilities -- and workshop/outlets for small businesses.

An appeal for funds was launched at the meeting, since the cost of submitting this residents planning proposal to council will be high. A basic outline submission of the resident's plan will cost at least £5,500. "We are asking the public and business community of Lancaster to support our plan," commented campaigner and Ridge resident Sue Paylor. "What we need in effect is 100 donations of £50 to prevent people being excluded from the planning process."

For more details about Real Planning for Lancaster call Paul Speight (01524 65173) or Alistair Kirkbride (01524 847938) or email colincorridor@hotmail.com.