Sutton Poyntz steps closer to agreeing neighbourhood plan

This press release is courtesy of Dorset Council.

A local community has taken a significant step closer to having greater influence over planning decisions in their area.

A final version of the Sutton Poyntz Neighbourhood Plan has been submitted to Dorset Council for examination.

The plan has been drawn up by local people, and approved by Weymouth Town Council, who feel confident that the plan reflects the hopes and views of the local community.

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.

Dorset Council is required to consult on the plan proposals before the examination can take place.

View the Sutton Poyntz Neighbourhood plan

A hard copy of the plan will be made available at the council offices in South Walks House, Dorchester.

Weymouth Town Council also has also made reference copies available at its Town Council Offices, Weymouth and Littlemoor Libraries and community venues in Sutton Poyntz.

The plan can be viewed online on the Dorset Council website and on the Sutton Poyntz Neighbourhood Plan website.

Comment on the plan

People who live, work or run a business in the Sutton Poyntz neighbourhood area have until 12 July 2019 to raise any concerns they may have about the plan. These concerns will then be passed on to an independent examiner to consider.

Cllr David Walsh, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said:

“I’d like to thank everyone who has contributed to the plan for their hard work in getting it to this stage in the process because it is a huge commitment undertaken by members of the local community, even though readily supported by Council Planning Officers throughout the process.

“If anyone has an interest in the future development of Sutton Poyntz, please do view the plans and submit any feedback you have.”

Comments on the plan can be emailed to planningpolicyteamb@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk.

Alternatively, they can be posted to Planning and Community Services, South Walks House, South Walks Road, Dorchester DT1 1UZ.

Anyone commenting on the plan should let the council know if they wish to be kept informed of the progress of the Sutton Poyntz Neighbourhood Plan.