Residents urged to help shape Dorset’s future

Residents across Dorset are being urged to have their say on the county’s future. 

Dorset Council has launched public consultations on two major strategies, the Local Plan and Local Transport Plan, that will shape the county over the next 15 to 20 years. 

Every council in England is required by law to produce a Local Plan and Local Transport Plan to meet government targets and ensure sustainable development.   

Under the banner “Dorset is Changing”, everyone from all walks of life is invited to share their views about where future generations will live, work and how they’ll travel. 

The consultations are focused on the real needs of Dorset’s residents from affordable homes, to job opportunities and better, greener ways of getting around. 

The latest draft of the Local Plan, which sets out where new homes and businesses could be developed, is now going out for consultation after previous feedback has been considered. The Local Plan includes new site options for housing across the county. 

And alongside it, the Local Transport Plan, developed with Bournemouth Christchurch Poole Council, will look at how to make travel across the county safer, cleaner and more reliable. 

Councillor Shane Bartlett, Cabinet Member for Planning and Emergency Planning, said: “This is a big moment for Dorset. We have tough housing targets to meet that the government has set, but I’m also mindful that we’re planning for real lives, not just numbers on a page.  

“The Local Plan is how we decide where homes go, what kind of communities we’re building and how we make sure future generations have what they need.  

“At the same time, we need to protect Dorset’s unique environment and character and make sure that the county grows in a way that’s fair, sustainable and based on what our communities actually need.” 

“So, these are not just technical exercises. With growing pressure on local infrastructure, the decisions made now will shape Dorset for decades to come.  

“We are determined to get it right and that means listening to the people who live and work here so I’d urge everyone to take part.” 

The council is also engaging with schools, ensuring that young people, who will live with the consequences of today’s decisions, have a voice in the process. 

Councillor Jon Andrews, Portfolio Holder for Place Services said: 

“You can’t plan new homes or business opportunities without thinking about how people will get to work, school or the shops,”   

 “The new Transport Plan is about making everyday journeys easier, cleaner and more reliable, and we want the public to help guide that thinking.” 

Work is also beginning on a new Design Code for Dorset, which will help ensure future developments are well-designed, reflect the county’s character and create places people feel proud to live in. 

The public consultations for each plan begin on the 18 August and run for 8 weeks. People can view the strategy documents, interactive maps and take part here.

People can also view the Local Plan strategy documents at local libraries and at County Hall, Dorchester. 

Drop in events will take place across the county in the coming months, with opportunities to find out more about the proposals. You can find a list of drop in events here