I am neither a statistician or planner but feel that Jamie Roberts does not need a report to highlight that the vast amount of recent building in the Dorchester area will initiate migration of the population especially as the building in many instances have incorporated purpose-built accommodation for the elderly. 

Even if the council is not aware of the exact proportion of elderly versus young people, just strolling around the town will give an indication of the population of young versus old, of care needs not only in the elderly but the whole population, our thirst for quick meals that need no preparation and no cooking, along with a change in lifestyle has meant an increase in obesity in some of the population and with this comes health care problems such as heart disease diabetes etc, not restricted to the elderly population.

Planners have for years catered for builders as opposed to housing needs, which now puts a strain on health care in Dorset. 

Whilst I accept that not everyone wants to own their own home and prefer to rent, we must accept that the country as a whole has not replaced the sell-off of council houses leaving a shortfall for affordable housing, which in turn has a knock-on effect for would be residents on low-paid wages.

Another problem being that health care services have not increased to cater for the increase in health needs.

I wonder whether in the county council’s projections there is a need for the council to ensure services are provided not just for the population to plan ahead as they can only plan so far but without vital services can go no further.

Isn’t it time that the council tax payers’ money was used more wisely, let’s have joined up thinking for a change, without affordable housing we will not find workers in the healthcare industry, we need when building work approved as part of that approval infrastructure to support the population. 

We all have a part to play, let’s get out of the blame society and let’s all do our bit including councillors who are elected, remember why you were elected and work for your community.

Heather Robinson
Bridport Road
Dorchester