The consultation, which is expected to start at the end of this month (March), is seeking comments on the options available to tackle the major development issues which the district faces to meet the challenges set by the Government.

Questions asked will include how and where new sites can be identified for housing, employment and other development need and what supporting infrastructure (roads, schools, transport etc) is needed?

The consultation will also review planning strategy issues such as where new development should be concentrated.

Nearly 100 sites throughout the District have also been suggested so far by town and parish councils, landowners or developers for possible development in the longer term. None of these sites have been put forward or evaluated by West Oxfordshire District Council and at the moment there are no specific proposals for any development on the sites.

The sites are for consultation purposes only. There is also the opportunity to submit alternative or additional sites to the Council for assessment.

West Oxfordshire district councillor Jill Dunsmore, cabinet Member for communities said: "It is very important to stress that no proposals are being put forward by West Oxfordshire District Council and that none of the sites shown on the maps are either counted in or counted out of any plan.

"This public consultation is the beginning of a complicated and often contentious planning process. We hope as many people as possible will contribute their ideas so the best strategy is adopted which meets local development requirements at the same time as protecting this beautiful part of the country."

The consultation is one of the first steps towards the production of major new planning policy documents, known as the Local Development Framework (LDF). It will replace the current adopted West Oxfordshire Local Plan and the consultation will end on May 12.

Further information about the consultation and the new 'Planning for the future' (LDF) process visit www.westoxon.gov.uk/LDF where interactive maps showing sites submitted can also be viewed on the website.

Alternatively, for further details, contact the council's planning policy team on 01993 861420. Copies of the consultation documents will be available at Council offices and local libraries.