One to keep an eye on – the preferred options draft of the
West Dorset and Weymouth Local Plan is now going through committees prior to consultation
in August – October. Click here
for a look at the proposed policy changes and site allocations.
Key points to note include:- 2.5% increase on proposed growth (up to 794 dwellings per annum) – but the actual supply could in theory deliver 955 dwellings per annum as it would include a ‘buffer’ of about 3,200 homes above what is needed;
- New site specific allocations at all of the towns, plus Crossways. This includes a major development north of Dorchester, significant growth at Sherborne, and the release of further sites at Crossways. No specific allocations proposed in the area's villages;
- Proposed approach to setting minimum growth figures for Neighbourhood Plan areas;
- More permissive approach for residential conversions in the countryside, providing the building is not completely isolated (so at a minimum should forms of a hamlet or group of buildings);
- More relaxed approach proposed on the size of replacement dwellings in the countryside;
- Small sites (up to 5 dwellings) will not be expected to make any affordable housing contributions for the foreseeable future.
