PEOPLE in East Dorset and Christchurch are to have their say on the future of where they live.

At an extraordinary meeting of East Dorset District Council and Christchurch Borough Council at Bournemouth’s Village Hotel last night, councillors unanimously voted to put a “historic document” vision of how the areas could change out to public consultation.

From Monday, October 4, residents will be able to comment at public exhibitions, by post, online and through Facebook and twitter.

Concerns included greenbelt building, affordable housing and potential expansion of employment land around Bournemouth Airport.

East Dorset District councillor Toni Coombs said: “I’m very concerned because Verwood comes under the flight path of Bournemouth Airport.

“Residents would want their opportunity to comment, particularly on night flights, and in this new world of working together I hope everyone will get the opportunity to comment on all parts.”

Council officers assured her residents could put forward their own ideas.

East Dorset District councillor Barbara Manuel expressed worries that West Parley’s greenbelt would be threatened again.

She said: “I have some serious concerns about the housing suggestions put forward.

“West Parley residents are not NIMBYs, and they’re also realists who understand the housing needs.”

The main issues for Christchurch include new housing developments, such as options to build between 500 and 1,250 new homes at Roeshot Hill.

There’s also a range of ideas for Christchurch and East Dorset’s town centres, like a sports village in Wimborne.

Deputy leader of Christchurch Borough Council, Cllr John Lofts said: “We are talking tonight as if we own this but we are going out to consultation and it is our community that own it.

“It’s over to them and we shall listen to their replies.”