WHILE some villages around the Southern Downs await development, others are coming along in leaps and bounds.

Members of the Maryvale Progress Association Inc met on Saturday to "brainstorm" ideas for the future of the blossoming township.

On May 18, the committee will meet JFP Urban Consultants to discuss the Maryvale Urban Development Plan which is being undertaken by the Southern Downs Regional Council.

Maryvale Progress Association president Joan Bean said it was an exciting time for the village but residents wanted to be clear about the direction of development.

"We know the potential that Maryvale has but we know we want it to stay a rural style community," she said.

"We aren't looking for it to become like a suburb of Brisbane."

Maryvale has experienced considerable growth in population as more people are drawn to the attractive town.

"People are coming so quickly at the moment, we are all really noticing the growth," Mrs Bean said.

Southern Downs Mayor Tracy Dobie said the council was looking at ways of meeting the community's vision while striving to grow the region's population.

Mrs Bean said the council had been responsive and engaging with Maryvale residents throughout the process.

"I have found this particular council very encouraging, they are positive," she said.

Residents of the town will bring their ideas for the future when they meet with urban consultants next week.

"Southern Downs Councillors and other Council senior staff will not attend to ensure Maryvale residents are given the best possible opportunity to have their ideas heard," a SDRC spokeswoman said.

"The feedback will be collected and used in an urban design framework which will guide Council on the Maryvale community's expectations."

The Maryvale Urban Design Project aims to enhance and build on the existing character of Maryvale as an attractive and desirable place to live, work and visit.

But Mrs Bean said the council had already answered calls for improvements to the Maryvale cemetery.

"It has gone from something that was an embarrassment to something that is beautiful," Mrs Bean said.

"We're very excited to see what else will come."