NORTH Dorset residents are being asked their views on the shape of future development.

The consultation is part of the district council's Local Plan Review. The plan sets out strategic planning policies for the district, including such issues as where housing should be built and what infrastructure is needed.

Councillor David Walsh, portfolio holder for planning, said: "I would urge anyone with an interest in the future of North Dorset to respond to the consultation and attend one of the drop-in sessions that have been arranged.

"All of the responses received will be fully considered and analysed prior to the council moving on to the next stage of the review process."

The documents can been seen at dorsetforyou.gov.uk from November 27, when the consultation period begins. Responses must be in by January 22.

Drop-in sessions with planning officers will be held at Blandford's Nordon council offices on November 27, Shaftesbury town hall on November 29, Gillingham's Riversmeet Leisure Centre on December 5 and Sturminster Newton's Exchange, all from 10am to 7pm.