GOVERNMENT planning chiefs have called for modifications to the draft Poole Local Plan, the blueprint that could help guide development in the town up until 2033.

This local plan will list preferred areas for redevelopment within Borough of Poole's (BOP) boundaries, as part of targets to deliver 14,200 new homes, jobs and infrastructure.

Poole residents have been consulted on the draft document, and the Planning Inspectorate has now written to BOP chiefs informing them it is capable of being 'legally compliant' subject to modifications which include:

n More clarity on issues such as affordable housing, mix of uses in the towns centre, tall buildings and retail policy.

n Modification to the green belt boundary at Canford School.

n Amendment of the plan with regard to parking strategy and aspirations for rail service improvements.

The next step for BOP is to prepare the required modifications, to be submitted to the inspector for consideration.

This will be followed by another six-week consultation on the changes, which is anticipated to take place this summer.

BOP cabinet portfolio holder for planning and regeneration, Cllr Ian Potter, said: "Poole will see a lot of change over the period to 2033 including new homes, jobs and other facilities that will help Poole prosper over the coming years.

"The Poole Local Plan enables us to meet the needs of our residents both now and in the future and helps guide development and change across the town."

Currently, the draft plan outlines sites for 6,000 homes in the town centre; 5,000 homes in other areas with best access to public transport; 1,900 homes in the rest of Poole's urban area; 500 home of green belt land at Merley and 800 on green belt land at Bearwood.

Julian McLaughlin, head of growth and infrastructure at BOP, said: "It is important that we have a positive plan for accommodating growth and development in Poole.

"I would like to thank everyone who has taken the opportunity to comment on the initial plan and where modified we feel it is for the better.

"I would encourage people to provide comments to help shape the future of Poole once the consultation starts."

If the Planning Inspectorate finds the plan 'sound' subject to the recommended modifications, the plan could be adopted in Autumn/Winter 2018.