PLANS for a major 160-home development – the largest proposed in Purbeck in recent years – have been unveiled to the public for the first time.

Bloor Homes Ltd, who are set to apply for planning permission later this year, invited local residents to voice their views on preliminary plans and artists’ impressions at an exhibition at the Corn Exchange on Friday.

Their feedback will be fed into the planning process before a formal application is made.

Terence O’Rouke Ltd technical director Martin Miller, acting on behalf of Bloor Homes, said the exhibition showed some very traditional type housing: “We are asking people is this the right thing for Wareham, what they like, what they don’t like so that before we put the planning application in we can address some of their concerns.”

He added: “So far people seem to have received them very well. I’m sure there will be some negative comments in the comments box – but that’s to be expected with any development.”

The 4.67 hectare site off Worgret Road is currently farmland but has been earmarked for housing development by Purbeck District Council in a forward planning document. Read the development strategy.

Bloor Homes is proposing a mix of 160 one to four bedroom homes – half of which will be affordable housing – as well green spaces and play areas and access roads. Access would be via Worgret Road.

If their planning application is success the whole scheme could be delivered within five years.

Read the full details of the Purbeck Local Development Plan.