A document which will have a crucial role in shaping Breckland's future over the next 20 years will be discussed this week.

Breckland Council's Local Plan is entering its final stages and members of the council's working group will meet on Wednesday to further shape the draft document, focusing on Dereham.

The Local Plan will provide the framework for growth in Breckland. It aims to support a vibrant economy that provides homes and jobs. It will also mean future housing developments can be focused on agreed areas of the district's towns and villages.

The Local Plan has been in production over a number of years and public events and meetings with town and parish council representatives have been held.

Councillor Gordon Bambridge, chairman of the Local Plan Working Group, said: 'Breckland's Local Plan will be key to the future prosperity of the district and it is absolutely essential that we get it right. Feedback from local people and businesses, together with advice from expert bodies has helped shape the draft Local Plan document.'

Wednesday's meeting will see members consider issues related to Dereham. An additional meeting on March 17 is planned to help address outstanding points about the overarching Local Plan.

Mr Bambridge said: 'Some people have concerns about aspects of the draft proposals for Dereham, so I'm pleased we will have another opportunity to discuss these with representatives from the town council so we can consider the best way to deliver growth in the town.'

The draft Local Plan document will be taken to Breckland's full council in May and, if approved, will enter a six-week pre-publication period. During this time the draft document will be available at a number of outlets for public view, and will be published on the council website.

It will then be submitted to a Government Planning Inspector for scrutiny.