Green belt homes scheme rejected

The leader of the council said the plan was a "catastrophic threat"

A Dorset council has unanimously voted against plans to build thousands of homes on green belt land.

An independent panel recommended 5,150 new homes in Purbeck by 2026 - 2,750 on green belt land around Lytchett Matravers, Lytchett Minster and Upton.

The government has given its support to the proposal, but a final decision is not expected until later in the year.

Purbeck District Council unanimously voted against the plan on Tuesday and is preparing its case.

Councillors will use feedback from residents, which show that 95% lodged objections, when they make their formal opposition to Hazel Blears, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

Councillor Gary Suttle, leader of the Conservatives, said: "The 2,750 extra homes would be disastrous for our district and I only hope that the Secretary of State now sees sense and agrees with us."

Liberal Democrat leader Councillor David Budd said: "I am glad the council opposes this imposition by the Secretary of State on such an important area of green belt in the district."

Councillor Peter Wharf, co-ordinator of the Independents, said: "I hope the Secretary of State treats our objections with the weight they deserve.

"Otherwise, the council may have to consider other actions if our response is not considered properly."