Preshute - the tiny renegade parish council outside Marlborough - is now planning its own future.

Preshute PC withdrew from the Marlborough Area Neighbourhood Plan last year, saying it was unable to reconcile "rural parish objectives and with the housing ambitions of the urban focused Marlborough Town Council."

They voted to leave the process, fearing the plan would see Marlborough turned into a dormitory town for Swindon.

There are plans to build 180 houses around the town in the next 15 years.

Around 200 residents in the parish area are now being leafleted for their views on how their parish should look in the coming decade.

"We have commissioned the first comprehensive land use mapping of the parish," said Preshute parish council chair councillor Peter Morgan.

"This includes its landscapes, archeology, agricultural and equestrian development, sights of special scientific interest, views and skylines, woodlands and key flora and fauna locations.

"The mapping will reveal the extent of current development and where, if any, there may be sustainable opportunities for very small scale local needs housing.

"Preshute's biggest asset is its setting in the area of outstanding natural beauty and during the pandemic, we have seen a huge increase in the number of walkers, cyclists and horse riders and we want to encourage the accessibility and use of the area responsibly.

"To do this effectively, we believe we must keep a clear rural boundary with adjoining urban areas, maintaining Preshute's and the Marlborough Downs' special character."

The questionnaire asks for views on whether more affordable homes need to be provided, or whether additional business premises are needed and whether redundant buildings in the area should be used for residential, business or tourist accommodation.

"In finding the right balance when considering public use of the countryside, we cannot forget our responsibility to landowners - farming is a principal component of our rural economy - and to our internationally famous horse racing and equestrianism businesses. The needs of all those who work the land must be respected,"added Cllr Morgan.