MEMBERS of the public are being urged to give their opinions on a proposal to create a conservation area in north Dorset.

The conservation area is proposed for Colesbrook in Gillingham and residents have until Friday, March 24 to have their say.

The draft report describes the area of Colesbrook as "suitable" for a conservation area.

Conservation areas are places of special architectural or historic interest that are protected to ensure people can continue to enjoy their character for years to come. North Dorset District Council is responsible for deciding which places in North Dorset should be conservation areas and for ensuring that their special qualities are safeguarded.

Cllr David Walsh, North Dorset District Council portfolio holder for planning said: “It is important that residents of north Dorset can enjoy the unique characteristics that our district offers. We therefore would like to invite residents, especially those in the Gillingham and surrounding areas, to have their say on the draft report for the Colesbrook Conservation Area.”

Anyone who would like to see the draft report and make comments can do by visiting dorsetforyou.com/conservationareas/north or gillinghamdorset-tc.gov.uk/

The report and comment form are also available at Gillingham Town Council offices and Gillingham Library.

For more information email d3@north-dorset.gov.uk or phone district council on 01258 454111.