Much has been said in recent weeks on Preferred Options within the Local Plan.

Many comments have focused on North Dorchester and affordable housing in particular. Numerous comments imply that the council wouldn’t be able to secure 35 per cent affordable housing on this green field development. In reality, the district council has a strong record of securing full affordable housing provisions on green field developments.

Over the years the council has approved many large developments in West Dorset. Three of the largest, in Poundbury, Chickerell and Sherborne, all have the full 35 per cent affordable housing provision. Many hundreds of affordable homes will have been provided once all these developments are complete. These are all prioritised for people who have a connection to the area.

A continuous flow of affordable housing is needed in West Dorset, that is without question. But to bring them forward in the quantities needed, we need open market developments.

I strongly recommend residents read the local plan review documents at dorsetforyou.com/local-plan-review and use the facts in front of them to have their say on the proposals by 8 October.

Cllr Ian Gardner

Portfolio Holder for Planning

West Dorset District Council