PLANS to build nine affordable homes on the edge of Corfe Mullen are set to be approved, despite widespread opposition.

The outline application, submitted by Kevin Hodder, seeks permission for the development at Pardys Hill, following the refusal of 12-house scheme for the site in 2017.

The latest scheme will be considered by councillors at the first ever meeting of the Dorset Council eastern area planning committee on Wednesday (May 29) with a recommendation that it be permitted.

East Dorset District Council refused the original scheme due to concerns about the impact it would have on the character of the area – a decision which was backed at appeal in October 2017.

Scaled back plans were submitted last year for nine houses which it says would all be ‘affordable’.

A planning statement submitted with the application said the mix of two, three and four-bedroom homes would create a “cohesive neighbourhood” and that it would “positively contribute” to the need for housing in the area.

However, 123 letters objecting to the proposals have been submitted, including one from Corfe Mullen Parish Council, prompting the decision for it to be considered by councillors.

Concerns were raised that the development was “unsustainable” and “harmful” to the openness of the green belt.

Members of the Dorset Council eastern area planning committee are being recommended to approve the application at their first meeting on Wednesday.

Planning officer James Brightman suggested in his report subject to an agreement being completed that all the homes remain ‘affordable’ permanently.

“The proposal offers the opportunity to secure nine affordable units of social housing in perpetuity,” he says.

“There is a need for affordable housing in Corfe Mullen and there is an under-delivery of housing in the area due to developments identified in the core strategy not now delivering the quantum of affordable housing initially envisaged.”

He adds that the proposal is “appropriate” for the green belt and that its benefits outweigh its impact on the landscape.

Councillors will determine the application on Wednesday.