Town councillors have clashed over whether a masterplan to prevent overdevelopment is needed for Cockermouth.

At a meeting last week one said the town needed a new development plan, others claimed it was unnecessary and a waste of time and money.

Last month, town councillors agreed to look into creating a neighbourhood development plan which could be used when planning applications were considered in the future. 

But at this week's meeting it was decided to scrap the idea. Councillors voted six to four against developing an NDP.

Councillor Eric Nicholson was concerned about the timescales, work involved and cost. He also said it was not needed. "I have a real problem with this proposal. I think it would take at least two years. And, realistically it will cost in the region of £35,000 to £40,000."

Councillor Alan Kennon said: "I think this plan would be doubling up on work that's already been done by Allerdale and the county council."

But Coun Alan Smith said. "I cannot believe what I'm hearing around this table. This town needs a masterplan. This would give the local plan a bit more of an edge when the developers come along. It would stop planning creep."