Promise Of New Homes

16 July 2010, 05:30

The leader of Purbeck Council has been telling Heart they are still going to build affordable homes in the area, but local people will decide where they go.

Councillor David Budd has been speaking after the new government scrapped Labour's plans to build 2,750 homes on green belt land at Lytchett Minster through the Regional Spacial Strategy.

Purbeck District Council had unanimously opposed the plans put forward in 2008 and supported residents in their fight against the threat. 

The Council was proactive in fighting the proposals through commissioning of research on the impact of development on the district’s natural habitat, particularly the heathland which covers much of the district. 

Cllr Budd said: "With 1,500 people on our housing waiting list, there is still a need for affordable housing in the district. Our average house prices are very high compared to average wages and that's why people, particularly young families find it so hard to remain in the district."

The Council is currently consulting with residents and businesses on the location of housing that is needed in the district and is gathering feedback through questionnaires and consultation events.