UP to 266 affordable homes could be made available as part of proposals for a controversial development.

A decision on plans for the Vearse Farm development in Symondsbury could be taken early next year as updated proposals are set to be handed over to planners this month.

In September 2015, Hallam Land Management submitted outline plans to build up to 760 homes, as well as land for employment, a new school and a care home.

Members of Bridport Town Council, as well as other local authorities, the Bridport Neighbourhood Plan steering group and Bridport Local Area Partnership have been meeting with developers to help form a masterplan for the outline scheme.

Speaking at last week’s town council plans meeting, town clerk Bob Gillis said the masterplan was due to be submitted “by December” and that the application could be determined by February.

He said: “They are hoping to submit the revised plans and the draft masterplan by December.

“The masterplan and revised plans will be subject to consultation as part of the planning process and determination of the outline planning application.

“These documents would then be issued for consultation, with a decision on the outline application taken possibly in FebruaryThis timescale is though only outline and subject to confirmation.”

Mr Gillis also briefed councillors about the allocation of affordable homes as part of the development, which could be provided through community land trusts (CLTs) to help the homes be available for local people. Planners could bind the development to a certain proportion of affordable homes, subject to approval, thought a section 106 agreement.

The town council hopes the developers will provide 35 per cent of the scheme as affordable housing–266 homes. It is thought 70 per cent, 186 homes, would be affordable rented as well as 80 low cost homes for sale or shared ownership.

He added: “In terms of the masterplan, the aim would be to ensure that the community’s wishes in respect of affordable housing, employment land and community growing areas are reported back to the developers, in time for the completion of any Section 106 agreement.

“The local community land trusts are very keen to get involved with helping to deliver all of the affordable homes on site. West Dorset District Council is very keen for the CLTs to get involved as you can retain the local connection.”

Andy Birch, regional manager for Hallam, confirmed that a public consultation will be held when the draft masterplan is submitted.

Those involved in the masterplan discussions are pushing for employment land that is “particularly suited to start up businesses and those with limited resources” while there could also be scope for “allotments and potentially a community farm”.