The Panel appointed by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government to advise on the draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West has published its recommendations.

The board has recommended the building of 6,400 new homes in East Dorset over the next 20 years, with 3,000 of these being built as infill or redevelopment within the existing built up areas.

In the report, the panel has rejected East Dorset District Council’s argument that the urban extensions at Corfe Mullen, Ferndown and West Parley and north of Wimborne should be removed from the Strategy. If they are confirmed, these urban extensions would accommodate 2,400 dwellings. In addition, the Panel recommends that a further 1,000 dwellings should be found in smaller developments around existing settlements in East Dorset.

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The Panel's report also supports an extension to Ferndown Industrial Estate and making the A31 into a dual carriageway through the conurbation. Another major new proposal recommended by the Panel is the development of the Stour Valley as a major area for the countryside recreation.

The figure of 6,400 new homes would include affordable housing with some developments undertaken by housing associations and the Housing Corporation, as well as an 'affordable share' on private development sites. The report reinforces the Council's policy of seeking an 'affordable share' of 40% affordable housing in private sector housing.

The Secretary of State will now consider the panel recommendations and publish her proposed modifications to the draft Strategy later in the spring.

(JM)