Should the boundary between Bridport and Symondsbury change?

West Dorset District Council is carrying out a community governance review to decide whether any changes should be made to the boundaries of Bridport Town Council.

The town council called for a rethink of its current position after planning permission was given for 760 homes at Vearse Farm in the neighbouring parish.

Councillors say they had little say over the development yet will end up providing facilities and services to those who come to live there.

Such reviews invite the public and other interested parties to set out their views about the most suitable way of representing local communities.

WDDC is required to ensure community governance within the area will be 'reflective of the identities and interests of the community in that area' and be 'effective and convenient.'

Local councillors representing Bridport and Symondsbury will work together to come up with recommendations to the district council’s strategy committee.

Before any decisions are made, your views will be taken into account.

WDDC corporate spokesman, Cllr Peter Barrowcliff, said: “A community governance review gives local people and other interested parties the chance to set out their views about how their community should be represented.

“Bridport Town Council is seeking to amend its parish boundaries which have not been reviewed for some time although the district and county boundaries have been reviewed and varied. The review is also timely in light of the proposed large scale development near Symondsbury.

“If you would like to comment or make a proposal on any aspect of the review, we would like to hear from you.”

Whether you’re a resident or part of an organisation or business, you’re invited to have your say on the review.

Documents containing further information about the changes can be found at dorsetforyou.gov.uk.

You can then send your comments by email to elections@dorset.gov.uk

All comments must be submitted by July 4, following which the council will review all feedback and decide how it meets the requirements of relevant legislation and guidance.