RESIDENTS in Marnhull will head to the polls later this month to decide the future shape of development in their parish.

Dorset Council has confirmed that the Marnhull Neighbourhood Plan can proceed to a local referendum after successfully passing an independent examination.

The vote will take place on Thursday, March 19, with polling stations open from 7am to 10pm.

Voters will be asked to answer ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to adopting the plan.

People are reminded that photo ID is required to vote at a polling station and must also be on the electoral roll.

The plan, created by residents and agreed by the parish council, sets out a shared vision for how land and buildings should be used in the area.

If backed in the referendum, it will be used to help determine planning applications across Marnhull parish, alongside National Planning Policy Framework and the adopted Local Plan.

Neighbourhood plans were introduced under the Localism Act 2011 and are designed to give communities greater influence over planning decisions.

They can identify where new homes, shops or offices should be built, set design standards for future development and protect valued features such as green spaces.

Dorset Council cabinet member for planning and emergency planning Cllr Shane Bartlett said: “A huge thank you to everyone who has been involved in the formation of this plan.

“It is the culmination of dedicated work by the parish council, local groups and the people of the parish of Marnhull.

“While Neighbourhood plans have to align with the Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework, they are an important part of the planning process.

“Neighbourhood plans reflect a community’s vision for the future of their parish and provide parish residents with a voice in the planning process. Please do take the time to take part in this final stage.

“Residents will need to ensure they are on the electoral roll if they intend to vote in this referendum.”

The plan can be viewed online. Paper copies are available at Sturminster Newton Library, St Gregory’s Church in Marnhull and at County Hall reception, Colliton Park, Dorchester.

Questions can be submitted by email or post to Dorset Council’s Spatial Planning team.