CIVIC leaders are working on an initiative that could pave the way for an injection of new Poole High Street businesses.

Borough of Poole wants to introduce a Local Development Order (LDO) in a bid to cut planning red tape and ensure Poole is “open for business.”

If passed, the order will spell the end of lengthy planning applications associated with High Street outlets changing use.

Poole council deputy leader Cllr Mike White said: “This is an exciting opportunity that allows us to free up bureaucracy, support new businesses and underlines our commitment that Poole is ‘open for business’.”

Cllr White thinks the initiative, covering the High Street between North Street and New Orchard, would cut down on the time retail units are vacant.

A borough spokesman explained the LDO, which will go out for public consultation at the end of January, will enable High Street units to change between retail, financial, restaurant, cafe and professional services usage.

“Most changes of use would be subject to an eight-week application process while planning permission is determined. During this time a prime retail unit would have stood vacant on High Street for two months, stifling economic growth and job creativity,” said the spokesman.

“The proposals laid out in the draft LDO would allow the appropriate uses desired for this part of the town to change hands on a much freer basis without the need to submit a planning application.”

Central government will have to rubber-stamp any new regulations before they can be rolled out locally.

Cllr White, who is also cabinet portfolio holder for planning and regeneration, will be among the councillors debating the draft LDO at a meeting on January 24.

He said: “The consultation process is important to getting the order right and I am looking forward to the comments that will help us achieve a speedy decision from the minister who has to approve the initiative.”