RESIDENTS across Dorset have had their say on potential sites for future mineral and waste facilities.

Some 483 people responded to a Dorset County Council (DCC) public consultation on the draft waste plan, which is set to include recycling facilities.

Four new quarry sites were highlighted in the document. These were Gallows Hill and Philliol's Farm, Bere Regis; Swanworth Quarry, Wool and Henbury Farm, Sturminster Marshall.

Meanwhile, new waste and recycling plants were proposed at Wareham, Ferndown, Gillingham, Dorchester and Blandford.

A number of sites were also considered for treating black bag and bulky waste including Mannings Heath and Canford Magna, Poole, and Parley, Christchurch.

DCC environment, infrastructure and highways cabinet member Cllr Peter Finney said: "We are pleased that so many local residents took part in the consultation.

"Their comments will help us decide on the final plans. We need to ensure we protect Dorset's environment and also build a sustainable economy for the future."

The consultation ran from May to July, and now a number of issues have been put forward to the council.

Main concerns from residents to the proposed waste and recycling centres included increased traffic, particularly from HGVs having to drive through residential areas - a council spokesman explained.

Other issues raised in the consultation included the impact any new facility would have on quality of life for wildlife and nearby residents.

There were concerns, particularly at Mannings Heath, Poole, about the impact any site could have on local businesses.

A DCC spokesman said: "In terms of the mineral consultation, the main concerns were over its visual impact, noise and dusts, and threats to the water environment.

"Challenges were also raised over fundamental issues, with some respondents suggesting there is already an adequate supply of sand and gravel and too many sites are proposed."

Now the plans will be reviewed in the light of responses, before a further public consultation takes place.