A DRAFT version of a blueprint that could help shape future development in Purbeck up until 2034 will be considered by district chiefs next month.

Earlier this year residents and businesses were encouraged to have their say on the document, which will set out preferred sites for 1,700 new homes over the next 15 years - in addition to just under 1,200 already planned or expected to be built during the same period.

Around 8,000 residents responded to a questionnaire and telephone survey, Purbeck District Council (PDC) says, and these findings have been used to help shape the draft Purbeck Local Plan.

This document will set out the favoured sites for redevelopment across Purbeck, putting the local authority in a stronger position to deal with any proposed developments on sites not highlighted within.

Now, the draft Purbeck Local Plan will be considered by PDC at a full meeting scheduled for Westport House, Worgret Road, Wareham, on October 9.

A PDC spokesman explained: "At this meeting councillors will decide whether to agree the draft local plan for publication.

"Subject to agreement by councillors, the draft plan will be published for six weeks, between October 22 and December 3.

"During this period, people will be able to comment on the 'soundness' of the plan.

"This relates to the way the plan has been prepared in accordance with legal and procedural requirements."

These comments will then be submitted to an independent planning inspector for consideration.

The draft plan consultation document listed the possibility of new homes on a number of sites, including Wool, Redbridge Pit/Moreton Station, Upton and Lytchett Matravers.

Earlier this year, when that consultation was launched, PDC leader Cllr Suttle said: "The district is in need of homes for local people, whether it is young people who want to stay in Purbeck, homes for people who will look after us as we get older, or homes for those facing homelessness."