On April 22, between 4pm and 9pm, you can vote on the question ‘Do you agree with the proposal of West Dorset District Council to move from their present headquarters in High West Street to a new multi-million pound office block which they propose to build?’ A leaflet should be delivered to you within the next few days detailing the location of your polling station.

Although we are voting on West Dorset District Council’s plan, only Dorchester residents can vote because of the restrictions of a ballot approved by the ‘parish’ or town.

Why the fuss? Residents and taxpayers have already shown themselves to have strong views about WDDC’s plans to build new offices for themselves and a new library in Charles Street, costing millions. There would then be further development of the present car park for shops and a hotel. Also consider that the Acland Road Church would have to move and some parking would be lost.

You may have views on the sums of money involved, or perhaps question the need for such a large amount of new building work at present when the Brewery Square development has already started and will provide offices, housing, shops and a hotel.

Whatever your thoughts for or against this £60million scheme, a good turnout is needed at the ballot for the town’s voice to be heard.

Many people feel the scheme is too big and risky. Similar schemes have been of limited success in Salisbury, York and Winchester, and precious open space has been lost. Can we afford partial take-up and empty, boarded-up buildings?

There is general agreement that the Charles Street car park is not a pretty place, but most would opt for a far simpler development in keeping with the town’s quiet, unpretentious nature and retaining some well-designed open space.

The economic argument particularly is flawed. WDDC is not comparing the new offices cost of £12million against the present cost of maintaining Stratton House which is £50,000 a year. WDDC is suggesting a gold standard refurbishment is necessary for Stratton House to continue to be used, which would cost £782,000 for the next 25 years. If they must move, it makes more sense to rent the office space which is planned and will be available in Poundbury or in Brewery Square.

There has been little public awareness of WDDC’s plans – no surveys, no extended exhibition.

This is your chance to have your say before the scheme goes for planning permission.

This is not a political argument but a democratic one.

The www.dorchesterforum.com website’s blogs and surveys show 85 per cent against the WDDC proposal. Please let your council know what you think on April 22.

S Wilkinson (proposer of ballot) M West(joint organiser)