PROPOSALS to formulate a special neighbourhood plan for a Christchurch village have overcome their first hurdle.

Burton Parish Council's hopes to introduce the policy document took a step forward with the formal designation of the area from Christchurch Borough Council members.

The move by the village came to fruition after the draft Christchurch local plan revealed proposals to earmark land in the rural area for hundreds of homes.

A neighbourhood plan is written by a local community rather than a council and described as a “powerful tool” to ensure the community gets the right types of development in the right place.

Burton's aim to introduce a neighbourhood plan is the first such proposal in Christchurch.

The costs involved with producing the plan, an estimated £10,000, fall to the parish council, however Cllr David Flagg said he understands an application will be made for grant funding.

Burton councillor Colin Jamieson said: "The request for a neighbourhood area comes because of the provision going forward in Christchurch Borough Council's local plan.

"This proposal has been properly considered by Burton Parish Council and the reason for doing it is to ensure the protection of our local Green Belt area, the provision of suitable housing numbers and the provision of appropriate infrastructure to support those expansions, should they go ahead.

"In order to achieve this, the parish council has started the neighbourhood plan process."

The designation was unanimously approved by Christchurch Borough Council members.

Cllr Ray Nottage: "I would like to congratulate Burton Parish Council on the development of the neighbourhood plan. "I have often wondered why more areas have not taken the opportunity, although I understand the cost associated with it." Cllr Colin Bungey said it was an excellent idea and suggested the soon to be established Christchurch Town Council and Highcliffe and Walkford Neighbourhood Council consider following Burton's lead.

Once completed, the neighbourhood plan will provide policy guidance for planning applications in the area.

Next steps for Burton include formulating a draft plan, carrying out a series of consultations with residents before eventually submitting the policies for independent examination and a referendum.