DO you have an opinion on affordable homes, jobs and green spaces in Weymouth?

Weymouth residents have a rare opportunity to influence decisions that will affect the lives of local people as well as their children’s future – particularly when it comes to making sure there are enough genuinely affordable homes for those on local wages.

Views are being sought in an online survey - but time is running out to have your say.

As reported, Weymouth Town Council is running a survey until 5pm Tuesday January 31, the results of which will help shape a new Weymouth Neighbourhood Plan.

The plan will remain in place for the next 17 years and will affect where houses and community facilities are built; which green spaces should be protected, and could help secure better employment opportunities for the next generation.

Participants will also be asked for views on how to address the climate emergency - including whether new developments should be carbon neutral, enhance biodiversity and be energy efficient. 

Respecting the town’s rich history and character is key, according to councillor David Northam, chairman of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group.

The group has been working with locals to prepare the draft documents, which are available to view on the council’s website along with the survey.

Paper copies are available at libraries in Weymouth, and the Weymouth Information Shop.  

Cllr Northam said: “As Weymouth continues to grow, people have a golden opportunity to help shape its future, including what sort of developments should be built, and where; protecting our green spaces, and improving cycle routes.

“This is about creating a neighbourhood plan that reflects the rich history, heritage and character of Weymouth, and feels ‘owned’ by residents. It will affect everyone who lives or works in the town which is why it’s vital that people have a say.”

Dorset Echo: Should new homes be built in the town centre, or on green spaces? Difficult choices must be made - and you can help decide Should new homes be built in the town centre, or on green spaces? Difficult choices must be made - and you can help decide (Image: NQ)

A consultation held last summer was met by a ‘positive’ response, the council said – and the steering group is now asking further questions on land use, as there needs to be a balance between protecting important community and natural spaces and identifying land for future homes and jobs. 

The survey is open until 5pm on Tuesday January 31 and the results will be analysed and fed into the draft Neighbourhood Plan document. This will be published later in 2023 for formal consultation. 

People are also being urged to share the survey with five friends, colleagues or family members.

For more details and to take part in the survey visit www.weymouthtowncouncil.gov.uk/neighbourhood-plan