Charmouth residents can now have their say on a document that can guide future planning applications in the village.

The village’s draft neighbourhood plan was ready for public viewing from early April for consultation, but due to coronavirus, this had to be postponed.

However, following some changes in the ways the draft plan can be communicated to residents, consultation has now been rearranged for Friday, July 31 for a six-week period.

Andy Bateman, chairman of Charmouth Neighbourhood Plan steering group, said: “Over the past four years, a dedicated team of local volunteers, working on behalf of the Charmouth Parish Council, has been developing the draft neighbourhood plan for Charmouth, reflecting on the wishes of the people who live and work here and is now ready for public consultation.

“People who live, work or run businesses in Charmouth parish will have the opportunity to comment on the plan, including certain statutory bodies.

“This is an opportunity for residents and businesses to have their say before the draft plan is forwarded to Dorset Council.”

Comments can be made until 5pm on September 11 before it is submitted to Dorset Council for independent examination.

A copy of the draft can be found at charmouthparishcouncil.gov.uk where there is also an online response form. A paper copy of the draft can be delivered to those without internet access and those who would like to borrow a copy should call 01297 561024. It will be delivered with a response form and collected and quarantined beforehand.

Following the consultation, a statement including a summary of comments received and how these were considered will be made available for viewing, along with the amended neighbourhood plan.

Neighbourhood plans aim to give residents more say in the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example, the plan can say where new homes, shops or offices might be built or where important green spaces might be protected.

Mr Bateman added: “Overall, Charmouth Neighbourhood Plan reflects a balance between encouraging moderate growth and development whilst protecting the uniqueness of our village and its natural environment.

“There are 22 draft policies included within the plan covering heritage and history, assets and amenities, natural environment, local economy, housing, getting around and energy efficiency and coastal change.”

There will be telephone sessions on August 8 from 10am to 12noon, August 17 from 7pm to 9pm, August 26 from 10am to 12noon, September 5 from 10am to 12noon and September 10 from 7pm to 9pm for anyone wanting to discuss it. This can be done by calling 01297 561024.