Backing has been given to support a request for National Park status for the Dorset and Devon coast.

Weymouth and Portland Borough councillors agreed the move despite hearing that in other areas national park status had increased the number of second and holiday homes, pushed up prices and made even basic planning issues difficult.

But promoter of the idea Richard Brown, speaking during the public session, claimed the status would bring in Government money, protect the environment, and lead to a better response to local housing needs.

He said the move would not result in a call for extra money from council tax and would encourage inward investment in the area.

Cllr Paul Kimber, who proposed that the council support the idea, said that National Park status for Dorset had been talked about since 1945. He said if it was agreed it would include parts of Portland, but not the towns in the area, including Weymouth.

“They are shown to attract investment and respond to local needs,” he said.

Cllr Kevin Brookes said that he had lived close to one of the country’s 13 National Parks and had found that they had their own powers over planning and mineral rights with their Boards made up half from local councils with the rest appointed by the Government.

“It is difficult in these areas to get even a basic planning application through and the price of property goes up as the number of second homes increases and holiday homes go through the roof,” he said.

But Cllr Ray Nowak, who seconded the motion, argued that almost the opposite was true: “It brings lots of dosh from the Government and it gives you much more control over the area: planning controls are strengthened and they can help with affordable housing and drive the economy…it’s a win, win situation” he said.