A PIONEERING Winsford project to create a new acedamy in the town will come under the spotlight at a public meeting next week.

The E-Act Academy new build project and planning for the future of the town are the main agenda items at the next meeting of the local community forum on Wednesday November 16 from 6.30pm at the venue.

Construction, subject to planning approval, for the new academy is due to commence next spring with the new building completed by the end of summer 2013.

The forum is part of the consultation with the community over the design and construction of the new building with the formal planning application due to be submitted next month.

Winsford is also to become a pilot to test new planning powers through a ground-breaking partnership led by Winsford Town Council with Cheshire West and Chester Council and Weaver Valley Partnership Board.

The changes in the planning system will give local people more say in shaping the future of how land in the town will be developed.

Representatives from Cheshire Police and Cheshire West and Chester Council’s community safety wardens will be hosting a community safety surgery from 6.30pm with the main meeting starting at 7.00pm.

Chairman of Winsford Community Forum, Councillor Don Beckett said: “The forum has a busy agenda and is a great opportunity for local residents to find out more about key projects such as the new build academy which we hope will have a positive impact on future learning in Winsford.

“It is also great news for Winsford that the town has been selected to pilot neighbourhood planning powers as part of the Government’s Localism Bill.

“I am sure both these topics are of great interest to the communities of Winsford and I would encourage local people to support the forum.”