Decision details

Decision

(a)       That the Dorset Council Local Plan Options Consultation document, as set out in Appendix A to the report, be approved for the purpose of public consultation, to take place for eight weeks from mid-January 2021;

(b)       That authority be delegated to the Service Manager for Spatial Planning, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Planning, to make any minor changes necessary prior to publication;

(c)        That changes to the Statement of Community Involvement included as Appendix B to the report be agreed to reflect the practicalities of consulting during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Reason for Recommendation:    

Having an up to date local plan in place is critical in order to shape the future of the Dorset Council area, provide for development to meet the area’s needs, and manage decisions on planning applications.  Cabinet have previously agreed the programme for preparing a Dorset Council Local Plan that would on adoption replace the current district local plans.  Public consultation is a vital part of the process, and this consultation will enable a wide range of views to be taken into account in moving the plan forwards.