Public consultation on Weymouth’s neighbourhood plan has been extended by a week.

Residents now have until Friday, December 15, to give their feedback on a draft plan shaping the future of Weymouth’s development until 2038.

An additional public meeting is also being held on Wednesday, December 13, at the town council offices on Commercial Road.

READ: Residents asked to have a say on Weymouth Neighbourhood Plan

The Weymouth neighbourhood plan covers things like protecting 48 green spaces for future generations, identifying land for affordable housing, making communities safer, more accessible, with nearby facilities, jobs and training opportunities so people can stay local, and making new homes environmentally friendly to reduce bills and carbon emissions.

Councillor David Northam, chair of the neighbourhood plan steering group, said: “Without a plan guiding this development, house builders could build what they want, where they want.

"Valued local green spaces and habitats would not be protected from development, and the shortage of social housing across the town would increase.”

People are now being urged to read the plan ahead of the consultation and are encouraged to attend the remaining engagement event s if they have any questions. 

READ: Weymouth residents can voice opinions on neighbourhood plan

Cllr Northam added: “If you’re not sure what the plan is about, look out for a leaflet being delivered to homes in Weymouth which gives a short summary.

"And if you want to ask questions about it, we still have some public engagement dates where you can read the plan, complete the short survey and get involved in the most important consultation in a generation. This is so important, don’t leave it too late to have your say.”

Remaining engagement events:

  • Wednesday 29th November - St Aldhelm’s Community Hall, 4.30pm to 6.30pm.
  • Monday 4th December - Public Meeting, Council Chamber, Commercial Road, 6pm to 8pm.
  • Wednesday 13th December - Public Meeting, Council Chamber, Commercial Road, 4pm to 6pm.

Following the closing date for feedback, the plan will be updated and submitted to Dorset Council for a further consultation and independent examination. Finally, there will be a public referendum on the plan.

Residents and organisations can go to Weymouth Town Council’s website where they will find the pre-submission plan document with all the proposals.

Feedback should be submitted by completing an online questionnaire at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/LKTT63N