RESIDENTS in Cerne Valley will be going to the polls over their neighbourhood plan.

A local referendum will take place on December 11.

The final version of the Cerne Valley Neighbourhood Plan was submitted to West Dorset District Council for examination in December 2013.

The plan was drawn up by local people, and agreed by the parish council, who felt confident that the plan reflects the hopes and views of the local community.

Cerne Valley was one of the original neighbourhood planning front runners identified early in 2011.

Residents in Cerne Valley who wish to vote will need to be on the electoral roll by Tuesday 25 November.

Those who wish to vote by post need to be registered by 5pm on Wednesday 26 November and to vote by proxy must be registered by 5pm on Wednesday 3 December.

Polls will be open between 7am and 10pm on 11 December, with the counting of votes from 10pm and result being announced once the count has taken place.

Cerne Valley Parish Council Chairman Ian Humphreys said: “After extensive consultations with the Cerne Abbas and Godmanstone communities, and a lot of work from a number of residents, I believe we have a Plan which, if adopted, will ensure the Cerne Valley remains a very attractive place to live and work.”

Cllr Robert Gould, Leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “This is an excellent opportunity for Cerne Valley residents to shape their community through the Neighbourhood Plan.

“I would encourage people to ensure they are on the electoral roll if they wish to vote in the December referendum.”