A REFERENDUM on a planning document that will shape future development in Broadstone is set to take place in June.

Voters will be asked if they want Poole council to use the Broadstone Neighbourhood Plan to help it decide planning applications in the area.

A six-week consultation on the document, which was produced by the Broadstone Neighbourhood Forum, took place at the end of last year.

The plan was then examined by an independent inspector who has agreed it can proceed to referendum.

If residents vote in favour of the plan, it will form part of the statutory development plan for the area, meaning it will need to be taken into consideration when all planning-related decisions are made.

The plan, which was started in 2013, contains a broad vision for Broadstone and the following ten planning policies: designating public open space; protecting Lytchett Drive local green space; enhancing biodiversity in Broadstone; securing high quality design and sustainability; balancing housing stock; housing on the Fairview Estate; development principles for Broadstone's central shopping area, and well-designed extensions.

Broadstone ward councillor Vikki Slade has previously spoken out in favour of the neighbourhood plan, saying it “gives the people of Broadstone the opportunity to help shape the future.”

The provisional date for the referendum is June 7, 2018, following a council decision in April.

The cost of the referendum and examination will be subsidised by a government grant of £20,000, although this is not expected to cover the total cost.

The latest stage of the plan will be discussed at a place overview and scrutiny committee meeting on February 27.

Julian McLaughlin, head of growth and infrastructure, is asking members to recommend that council accept all modifications to the plan made by the independent examiner.