Bere Regis residents now have influence over development in their local area after Dorset Council’s cabinet adopted the village’s neighbourhood plan in June 2019.
The neighbourhood plan was prepared by the community of Bere Regis. It sets out a vision and objectives for how the parish will develop from 2019 to 2034. A local referendum took place on the plan in May 2019 when 83% per cent of those who voted chose to support it.
The plan will be used to guide future development in the parish and determine planning applications.
The plan deals with the provision of homes. It also seeks to protect sensitive areas, including the conservation area, by avoiding inappropriate development or over-development, while also providing support for affordable homes, facilities and businesses.
Councillor David Walsh, portfolio holder for planning said: “Planning involves balancing needs and interests, so it is important we work with local communities. Members of the Bere Regis community worked hard to create this neighbourhood plan and we are grateful to them for their enthusiasm and determination.”
A paper copy can be read at Westport House, Worgret Road, Wareham, Dorset, BH20 4PP.
REFERENDUM
The neighbourhood plan was the subject of a referendum held on Thursday, 2 May 2019 at Bere Regis. 539 ballot papers were issued: 447 respondents (83%) voted in favour and 92 (17%) against.
WHAT IS A NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN?
Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011 and aim to give residents more say in the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example the plan can say where new homes, shops or offices might be built or where important green spaces might be protected.
Find out more about neighbourhood planning in Dorset and see the full plan, visit www.dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/neighbourhood-plans-in-dorset
