Local community invited to comment on draft plan for Marnhull

People living and working in Marnhull are invited to comment on their draft neighbourhood plan.

This is a significant milestone in the community’s journey towards a greater influence over planning decisions.

The plan developed by local residents, and agreed by Marnhull Parish Council, reflects the hopes and views of the community. Marnhull Parish Council has now submitted the plan for independent examination.

Before the examination can take place, Dorset Council is required to consult on the draft plan. This gives the local community the opportunity to provide feedback by Friday 19 September.

What are neighbourhood plans?

Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011 and aim to give residents more say about the future use of land and buildings in their area. For example, the plan can say where new homes, shops or offices might be built, or what they should look like. Plans can also be used to protect features that the community value, such as locally important green spaces.

If the neighbourhood plan is approved following examination, and supported by a local referendum, it will be used to inform decisions on planning applications in consultation with the National Planning Policy Framework and the adopted Local Plan.

Cllr Shane Bartlett, Dorset Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning, said:

“It takes a tremendous amount of work in order to put together a Neighbourhood Plan. I congratulate all involved in getting to this stage.

“While Neighbourhood plans have to align with the Local Plan and the National Planning Policy Framework Document, they are an important part of the planning process.

“The plans give local communities a real say in how their area should change over time. I would therefore encourage anyone with an interest in the future development of Marnhull to view the plans and submit any feedback they may have.”

How to have your say

People who live, work or run a business in the Marnhull parish area have until Friday 19 September 2025 to submit comments regarding the proposed neighbourhood plan. The plan and comments will then be passed on to an independent examiner to consider.

The plan can be viewed online where you can also submit your comments. 

Anyone commenting on the plan should let the council know if they wish to be kept informed of the progress of the neighbourhood plan.

A paper copy of the Neighbourhood Plan will be available for viewing at:  

• Sturminster Newton Library (open Monday 10am to 3pm, Tuesday 2pm to 5pm, Thursday Midday to 6pm, and Friday and Saturday 10am to 1pm).  
• St Gregory’s Church, New Street, Marnhull (open daily 9am to 4:30pm). 

It is also possible to request a copy by email or post by emailing neighbourhoodplanning@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk, phoning 01258 484224, or writing to Spatial Planning, Dorset Council, County Hall, Dorchester DT1 1XJ. A set of paper copies of the consultation documents will be charged at £26 plus £5 postage and packing.