View and comment on the revised Bere Regis Neighbourhood Plan

People who live, work or run a business in Bere Regis are encouraged to submit comments on a revised neighbourhood plan for the village by Monday 20 July 2026.

Neighbourhood plans aim to give residents more say in 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 where important green spaces might be protected.

Bere Regis Parish Council first adopted its neighbourhood plan almost 7 years ago. Following a review of the plan, it has submitted a revised version for examination by an independent examiner.

The updated plan was reviewed by local people, and agreed by the parish council, who feel confident that it continues to reflect the hopes and views of the local community.

Dorset Council is required to consult on the plan review before the examination can take place.

The plan and any comments received in the consultation will then be passed on to an independent examiner to consider.

View the plan online and make comments 

Neighbourhood plans, like all planning documents, benefit from being reviewed from time to time to ensure they are still relevant and continue to meet local needs.

If the revised neighbourhood plan is approved following examination, it will be used to make decisions on planning applications in Bere Regis.

Cllr Shane Bartlett, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning, said:

“It takes a tremendous amount of work to create a Neighbourhood Plan. It takes even more commitment to review a neighbourhood plan once the first one is adopted. I congratulate all involved for their ongoing hard work.

“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.

“Neighbourhood plans give local communities a real say in how their area could change over time. I would therefore encourage anyone with an interest in the future development of Bere Regis to view the proposed changes to the neighbourhood plan and submit any feedback they may have.”

Paper copies of the draft neighbourhood plan will also be available for public inspection at Puddletown Library during opening hours (telephone 01305 848506).

The document is also available to view in Bere Regis Hall and St John the Baptist’s Church in Bere Regis.

Anyone commenting on the plan should let the council know if they wish to be kept informed of the progress of the revised Bere Regis Neighbourhood Plan.

Neighbourhood plans were introduced in the Localism Act 2011 to guide and shape development in a particular area. They are an important way for communities to get involved in the future development of the areas where they live.