Planning policies for Dorset need to reflect not only the need for affordable housing and access to jobs – but sustainable policies for the environment.

Cranborne and Alderholt Cllr David Tooke said seven principles from the former east Dorset options consultative should be considered as a basis for a new county-wide Local Plan.

He told Tuesday's meeting of the Dorset Council cabinet that these included safeguarding the natural environment; to maintain and improve the character of the towns and villages, and to create vibrant local centres with sustainable patterns of development in accessible locations which would reduce the need to drive.

“This objective becomes even more significant in view of our declaration of a climate emergency,” said Cllr Tooke.

He said that other policies which should be considered for the 2023 Local Plan ought to include having “sufficient housing to address local needs, whilst maintaining the character of local communities.”

He said that the aim to reduce the need for people to travel and to have more travel choices would be crucial in meeting other objectives – and that this could be achieved by encouraging development in the most accessible locations, focused on prime transport corridors and town centres.