Developers of 3,500 home scheme have hit out at ‘comfortably housed’ protesters.

It comes as the results of a survey conducted by the developers of the North Dorchester scheme were revealed, although campaigners against the project have labelled them 'inconclusive.'

North Dorchester Consortium conducted the survey over the course of a year online, publicising it via social media advertisements, reaching 22,838 people, whilst generating 56,852 total impressions. Of these, 274 people conducted the survey.

The results found that 44 per cent of those living in predominately DT1 and DT2 postcodes supported new homes being built in their local area, compared to 42 per cent of respondents who were opposed and 14 per cent who were neutral. The question posed was ‘Would you support or oppose more homes being built in your area?’

Further to this, results showed a desire for more homes locally was strongest among those aged under 40, with 50 per cent supporting or strongly supported the creation of more new homes, compared to just 33 per cent in the 56 and over age range who wanted more homes built locally.

Fifty-two per cent of the 274 survey responses received were from those aged between 18 and 40.

According to the survey results, 26 per cent of people had not heard of the North Dorchester Garden Community.

There was also a question that provided a list of possible features that could be included within the proposed development, and asked which features would be of interest.  From this, the 'Creation of a wildlife habitat or reserve' and 'green energy initiatives' were of the greatest interest, followed by a 'home you can afford to buy’.  ‘More shops’ generated the least interest from respondents.

A spokesperson for the North Dorchester Consortium commented: “Building more homes in Dorset and attracting more jobs is an investment in the future for our younger generation.

“It’s important to recognise that opposition to development often comes from those who are already comfortably housed and for every vocal opponent marching the streets, there are those in a different situation who quietly seek the stability of a secure home.”

Nigel Kay, on behalf of the Save The Area North of Dorchester (STAND), said: “If the North Dorchester Consortium’s plans come to fruition, they intend to dump up to 4,000 new houses on precious farmland between Stinsford and Charminster and will destroy the character of our county town.

“The demand from young families for affordable homes is not in dispute. But the North Dorchester project is not the answer.  General Election candidates, Chris Loder (Conservative) and Ed Morello (Lib Dem) are both opposed to the plan, as are Dorchester Town Council and Stinsford and Charminster Parish Councils.

“There are better solutions that will not destroy our environment or place an intolerable burden on local health and community services, which are also in demand from young families.

“The consortium’s survey, which has been running on social media for over a year, only managed to attract 274 responses.

“The results are inconclusive. STAND’s petition, signed by 5,000 people opposed to ‘Norchester’ which we have presented to Dorset Council, is a much better representation of public opinion.”