MORE than 200 concerned residents packed a public meeting on controversial plans for a major development in West Parley.

It was standing room only at the village’s memorial hall on Tuesday evening, after West Parley Parish Council organised the event. Residents are largely opposed to the current proposals for 386 new houses, a supermarket and a new road on land east of New Road

An outline application has been submitted to East Dorset District Council.

Many residents argue the proposals constitute inappropriate use of what used to be green belt land, that there is a lack of infrastructure in place and planned, and the development is simply too large.

Campaigner Kenny Pearce, who is fighting the plans, said: “During the meeting the public were frequently encouraged to make their responses now, as the closing date is imminent.

“Anger was quickly evident as the debate became heated and lively for the three district and county councillors who did attend.

“They were put on the spot and asked to explain what was considered insensitive planning proposals for West Parley.”

Mr Pearce says West Parley Parish Council has indicated it will organise another public meeting and invite Ferndown, Dorset, Wimborne and Bournemouth councillors.

“These councillors will be asked to explain their actions and understand the impact the proposed development will have on not just West Parley, but everyone who needs to go through Parley Cross and beyond,” said Mr Pearce.

The West Parley development also includes plans for a link road, designed to ‘reduce traffic from Parley Crossroads’, applicant Lewis Wyatt construction said.

This latest meeting follows a major consultation exercise by Wyatt Homes last year.

More than 850 people attended the consultation event, with many raising concerns about the scheme.

Now, the number of homes have been reduced from 420 to 386.

Other changes have seen the plan for a hotel removed, an increased public square and revised building layout to integrate better with the existing local centre in New Road.

More room has been given for parking, turning, servicing, refuse and emergency services and the proposed food store has been moved to a different position.

This is so the building doesn’t dominate the street scene, a design and access statement says.