AS deputy leader of Poole council and portfolio holder for planning, I am pleased to confirm that consultation on a possible Local Development Order (LDO) has now started.

An LDO could cut out long delays waiting for planning approval for changes of use for businesses in Poole High Street. Possible changes include between retail, finance, restaurant, café and professional services and we would welcome comments and suggestions.

The consultation runs till Friday April 5 and you can respond via the Borough of Poole website (www.poole.gov.uk), by emailing planning@poole.gov.uk or in writing to Planning and Regeneration, Civic Centre, Poole BH15 2RU.

CLLR MIKE WHITE, Deputy Leader, Borough of Poole