A PARISH council is asking businesses for their views as planning guidelines covering the next 16 years are drawn up.

Masham Parish Council, near Ripon, was asked to complete a business needs survey for Harrogate Borough Council covering plans and developments up to 2021.

The parish council decided to question local companies to find out their views.

The survey is under way, but the parish council does not want to leave anyone out, particularly people planning to establish businesses.

Parish council chairman John Ellis said: "We did not want to speak up on behalf of the business community. We wanted to hear from their views before we submit our comments so it accurately reflects what they are saying."

To submit comments to the parish council, call (01765) 689431 to be sent a form.

Results from the survey will be collated and sent to the borough council.