PROPOSALS for a neighbourhood plan in Ferndown have been delayed over concerns about the local government reorganisation (LGR) process.

Councillors resolved not to begin working towards a neighbourhood plan because of the "current uncertainty" facing local authorities in Dorset.

The LGR process, if approved by the government, will see the number of authorities in the county reduced from nine to two. Funding will likely to be saved via a reduction in senior officers, with numerous redundancies possible.

Ferndown's mayor, Councillor Cathy Lugg, said neighbourhood planning expert Liz Bourne will attend the annual town meeting in March to take questions from residents.

"We are delighted to welcome Liz Bourne to speak at our annual town meeting on the hot topic of neighbourhood planning," Cllr Lugg said.

"Liz has experience of neighbourhood plans across the south of England. She will give a presentation before leading a facilitated discussion so people can comment and ask questions.

"The council recently resolved not to undertake a neighbourhood plan at this time due to the concern over cost, which could be in excess of £80,000, and the current uncertainty of the LGR for Dorset.

"It is anticipated that by March the result of the LGR will be known and Ms Bourne will be able to provide further details regarding estimates and time scales for a plan, should the council decide to proceed in the future."

The meeting will take place at the Barrington Centre on Tuesday, March 6 at 6pm.

Neighbourhood plans are written by people from the community and adopted by local authorities. The document becomes part of the development plan, which helps to decide planning applications.

It takes national planning policy and guidance into account.

During the Ferndown meeting, residents will also have the opportunity to ask about other issues.

In January, plans to devise a strategy for the future of the Christchurch coastline were shelved, in part due to the uncertainty over LGR.

A report given at a council meeting concluded it was important that authorities involved in the process 'do not compromise the ability of any future authority to act, or commit a future authority to specific policies or expenditure'.