CAMPAIGNERS have welcomed a decision by the developers of a proposed controversial 760-home development to host exhibitions allowing residents to give their feedback on the project.

Campaign group Advearse was formed to oppose the Foundry Lea development - previously known as Vearse Farm - on the edge of Bridport. Members say they are pleased developers Barratt David Wilson Homes and Vistry Partnerships will host exhibitions throughout August and encouraging feedback.

The housing plans have been controversial since they were first proposed and have led to protests, objections and a plea for the Secretary of State to call in the application – which he rejected.

Advearse lost a judicial review in 2020 after arguing that the council's decision to grant outline planning permission for the farm was open to legal challenge.

A group spokesperson said: "Advearse welcomes the publication by the developers of the housing on the Vearse Farm site of their plans for the housing part of the development. We also welcome the fact that they have encouraged feedback from the general public. We appreciate that Covid has made it more difficult for the two companies to organise public engagement.

"We would urge local residents to take the opportunity to look at the displays in town and to study the Foundry Lea website. Above all, we would encourage people to respond. It is vital that the local community takes the opportunity to gain maximum benefit from this major development. This is the time to make your views and suggestions to the developers.

"We have had two constructive meetings with representatives from Barratt and Vistry. We are, for instance, pleased that a strong commitment has been made to providing affordable housing. We are planning further meetings with Barratt and Vistry and can take up any general concerns or proposals."

Displays are now up on noticeboards in Bucky Doo Square in Bridport and will be installed at Eype Church from Tuesday, August 16. Local councillors will be on hand on occasion to listen to comments and concerns, and feedback forms will be available to allow residents to raise issues or concerns directly to the developers.

The development team, Barratt David Wilson Homes (BDW) and Vistry Partnerships, will not be attending in person, instead engaging with residents online through the site's recently launched website where the exhibition boards will also be available to view.

Advearse is also encouraging residents to share their views and concerns with the public through its own website.

The spokesman said the group is monitoring the progress of the development to ensure the conditions of the outline planning permission and S106 agreement are met.

As well as the two locations at Bucky Doo Square and Eype Church, the exhibitions can be found at www.foundrylea.co.uk