AN important opportunity for the public to have a say on the future of Test Valley comes to a close on 14 February.

That date marks the end of the six-week public consultation period on the review of the borough local plan.

Cllr Derrick Roach, portfolio holder for environmental issues, said: "This is the main opportunity for the public to comment on the proposals for housing and other developments to meet the needs of the community up to the year 2011.

"Anyone who would like to comment must do so before 14 February for their views to be considered by the council."

Councillors will consider all comments later this year and will revise the plan in light of those comments.

The revised version of the plan is expected in the autumn, when the public will have an opportunity to comment on any changes that have been put forward.

Any unresolved objections will be considered at a public inquiry in 2004.

For Andover, the plan includes proposals for large-scale housing development to the north east of the town and at Picket Twenty. Housing is also proposed on part of Andover Golf Club's course.

A new business park is planned for the former Andover Airfield off Monxton Road and an extension to the Walworth Industrial Estate is also being put forward. This would require the relocation of the existing Walworth Sports Ground to land south of London Road.

The plan can be seen at the borough council's offices in Andover or Romsey. It is also available at /www.testvalley. gov.uk and in local libraries. Or it can be purchased from the council for £25.