Christchurch Town Council inviting feedback on draft Neighbourhood Plan

PEOPLE in Christchurch are being invited to have their say on the future development of the town at two public events.

The town council will show residents and business owners the progress of the draft Neighbourhood Plan at the old town hall in High Street on Saturday and Monday.

Tomorrow’s event is open from 10am to 4pm and Monday’s from 10am to 2pm.

Although not binding, the finished document will contain guidelines that must be considered by developers and BCP Council when making applications and planning decisions.

It can also unlock thousands of pounds of extra funding but must ultimately be passed by a local referendum after being signed off by BCP Council.

Working group chair Cllr Robert Luscombe said: “Following the previous residents consultation that took place 18 months ago, a lot of work has been undertaken towards developing our draft Neighbourhood Plan.

“We would now like to consult again with residents to both share the work to date to and seek their views and opinions.

“The Christchurch Town Council Neighbourhood Plan will help us shape the future of Christchurch and input from residents is a key element of this work.”

A town council spokesperson said the working group has been gathering evidence, conducting site research and engaging with stakeholders following a survey conducted in February and March.

It has also been working with consultants to prepare a “design code and shopfront guidance” document and plans to conduct studies of car parking and traffic management to “effectively address the traffic and parking issues”.

The spokesperson said the working group is “now looking to listen to residents’ views on the work done” through public consultations and an online survey available at christchurchplan.uk until 30th November.

For hard copies of the survey email townclerk@christchurch-tc.gov.uk or call 01202 022479.