THE Blandford + Neighbourhood Plan submitted for examination in 2017 is to be strengthened and resubmitted by the end of this year after problems were flagged up.

The original plan drawn up by the steering group from town and parish councils received wide public support and broadly met the basic conditions.

But it is said the policy for development in a particular area did not, in the examiner’s view, meet national planning requirements.

The government recommended the plan be withdrawn and resubmitted.

It was therefore decided in early 2018 to work closely with North Dorset District Council and others to develop a more comprehensive neighbourhood plan with allocation of sites for housing, employment opportunities and much needed infrastructure including a new school.

A government grant has been approved which will enable the steering group, and other local partners to prepare a revised plan.

For more information visit blandfordplus.org.uk