A REFERENDUM on creating a local planning blueprint for Broadstone has been backed by Poole councillors.

Borough of Poole (BOP) members, at Tuesday's (April 25) full council meeting, recommended proceeding with a poll on the Broadstone Neighbourhood Plan.

Cllr Mike Brooke, who represents the Broadstone ward, said: "I am delighted the council has given the go-ahead for the referendum. The neighbourhood plan has been developed over the last five years.

"I would like to thank everyone who has contributed over this period and would urge residents to support the plan."

Neighbourhood plans hand local people the power to help shape future development where they live or work.

If the Broadstone plan is adopted, it means it will have to be taken into account when all planning-related decisions are made.

The referendum, agreed by full council, is the final stage of the plan's process.

Eligible residents will be asked to decide on the following question: 'Do you want the Borough of Poole to use the neighbourhood plan for Broadstone to help it decide planning applications in the neighbourhood area?'

If more people vote yes than no, the neighbourhood plan - which includes a vision and ten planning polices - will be taken back to council to be formally adopted.

These ten planning polices cover areas such as enhancing Broadstone's public realm, parking and traffic issues, improving existing residential areas, enhancing green spaces, new housing and improving pedestrian and cyclist safety.

BOP planning, regeneration and transportation cabinet member Cllr Ian Potter said: "Neighbourhood plans provide a great opportunity for communities to work together to decide how they want to shape their local area now and in the future.

"I would encourage Broadstone residents to take part in the referendum. If local people vote in favour of the plan, then it could become the second neighbourhood plan to be adopted by Borough of Poole."

The referendum is set for June 7

Visit poole.gov.uk for further details.