THE deadline for residents to give their views on a planning blueprint that could shape future development in Broadstone is fast approaching.

Local people have until midnight on Friday to lodge their ideas for the proposed Broadstone Forum Neighbourhood Plan.

This document should eventually form part of the statutory development plan for the area, meaning it will need to be taken into consideration when all planning-related decisions are made.

Borough of Poole (BOP) planning and regeneration cabinet member Cllr Ian Potter explained: "The neighbourhood plan enables local people to give their views on future residential and commercial development in their communities.

"It is particularly important that local people who live, work and carry out business within the plan area, and those who may be affected by development in this area, comment on the policies being proposed by the neighbourhood forum."

The forum neighbourhood plan contains a broad vision for Broadstone and ten planning policies.

These policies are designating public open space; protecting Lytchett Drive local green space; enhancing biodiversity in Broadstone; securing high quality design and sustainability; balancing housing stock; housing on the Fairview Estate; development principles for Broadstone's central shopping area; and well-designed extensions.

Broadstone ward councillor Vikki Slade said: "The introduction of neighbourhood plans is great news for local communities.

"It is important that neighbourhoods develop with the full support of their communities and this plan gives the people of Broadstone the opportunity to help shape the future.

"I would encourage everyone to get fully engaged with the forum and look forward to the next stage."

The consultation will be followed by an independent examination.

Then a local referendum, to decide whether the proposed neighbourhood plan will be adopted, will take place.

The online survey, at poole.gov.uk, is available for comments until midnight, December 22.