A local community has taken a significant step closer to gaining more control of the planning of their area.
A final version of the Cerne Valley Neighbourhood Plan has been submitted to the district council for examination.
The plan has been drawn up by local people, and agreed by the parish council, who feel confident that the plan reflects the hopes and views of the local community.
Cerne Valley was one of the original neighbourhood planning front runners identified early in 2011.
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.
If the neighbourhood plan is approved following examination, and supported by a local referendum, it will be used to make decisions on planning applications.
The district council is required to consult on the plan proposals, before the examination can take place.
People who live, work or carry on business in the Cerne Valley neighbourhood area have untilFriday 7 March 2014, to raise any concerns they may have about the plan. These concerns will be then be passed on to the independent examiner to consider.
Cllr Robert Gould, Leader of West Dorset District Council, said: “Cerne Valley residents have an excellent opportunity to shape their community through the Neighbourhood Plan.
“I would encourage people who have any concerns about the contents of the plan or how it was produced to let the district council know their thoughts before the examination and referendum takes place.”
A hard copy of the plan will be made available at the district council offices in South Walks House and atDorchester Library.Cerne Valley Parish Council also has copies available on 01300 341464.
The plan can be also be viewed online at www.dorsetforyou.com/neighbourhoodplanning/west/weymouth and on the Cerne Valley Neighbourhood Plan website www.cernevalley.org
Comments on the plan can be made using the online form or emailed to [email protected]
Alternatively they can be posted to the Spatial Policy and Implementation Team at West Dorset District Council, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester, DT1 1UZ.
Anyone commenting on the plan can also let the district council know if they want to be notified of the council’s decision.
Local people can sign up at www.dorsetforyou.com/enews to get latest council news delivered direct to their mobile or computer.
