SHIPSTON Town Council has supported a motion to explore how they can get funding from proposed developments in the town.

Councillor Martin Ferrier made the proposal at Monday night's council meeting to investigate opportunities for section 106 funding - money which developers can pay to Local Planning Authorities to offset the costs of the external effects of approved development.

It follows the announcement by neighbouring authority Cotswold District Council that it is funding a specialist for 18 months to help communities seek funding when a new development is proposed for their neighbourhood.

Cllr Ferrier said they should focus on the proposals from Banner Homes for Campden Road and Ainscough Strategic Land's (ASL) application for 143 homes and 72 extra care apartments on land north of Campden Road.

"Although we may object to ASL 'plan B', it doesn't mean we can't start to try and influence Warwickshire County Council and Stratford District Council about where we would like the 106 money applied for," he said. "It's a twin track approach. "

Meanwhile, members also agreed to enter "without prejudice" into discussion with ASL - which is also hoping to build a supermarket and petrol station in the town - to explore what opportunities there are within its application which could improve the town's infrastructure.

Five members voted in favour with three against despite some councillor's reservations.

Councillor Paul Rathkey said: "The council has had a dialogue with ASL for over two years. That dialogue in my opinion has been difficult if not impossible.

"This council has been opposed to this development from the outset and I think it would prejudice that opposition if we engaged with them now."

Members decided the sustainability and working group would pursue discussions.