FEARS Stourport could be neglected in the Local Plan to shape the future of the area in the next decade have been allayed.

Wyre Forest District Council planning and environment head Jake Berriman assured town councillors housing, employment, retail, transport and leisure improvements could be made possible when the plan comes into operation in December, 2003.

Members had expressed doubts Stourport could be neglected at Kidderminster's expense at a meeting in September last year, stating a lack of emphasis on retail and nightlife opportunities.

But at Tuesday's meeting Mr Berriman said the plan, which would work in conjunction with Stourport's proposed Severn Road and Lichfield Basin redevelopment scheme, had encouraging prospects.

He said: "There will be about 160 new homes at these sites, 25 hectares of employment space at the British Sugar and Folkes Forge sites, a new food store at Severn Road and two football pitches and a cricket square at Minster Road.

"We think we have found the right blend with the proposals we have made, which will retain Stourport's distinctiveness, features no major changes to the Green Belt land for both Stourport and Kidderminster, and retain the option for the Stourport Relief Road.

"But as we have always said, we are still open to the views of the public, councillors, businesses and whoever else. We do not make this plan alone."

Councillor Reg Knott said: "I think it's very important the three towns maintain their own identities and I'm delighted with everything in the plan as this is the case, and Stourport in particular will benefit on the retail side by the new store in Severn Road."

However, mayor Michael Grinnall warned the long-awaited relief road would need to be built before the Severn Road and Lichfield Basin redevelopment began, citing Stourport would not cope with the expected increase in town centre traffic.

Councillor Carol Warren summarised: "I congratulate the district council on the plan. If everything comes to fruition it will be very beneficial to us all."

For further details about the Local Plan write to Mr Berriman at Land Oak House, Chester Road North, Kidderminster.