Purbeck Distirct Council has issued a press statment attacking the decision of The Secretary of State, Hazel Blears’s decision to give her support for the building of over 5000 homes in Purbeck.

Cllr Gary Suttle, Leader of Purbeck District Council, says: “We are extremely dismayed by this news. Purbeck District Council unanimously deplores and condemns the proposals to build on the green belt in this exceptional area of the country.

It is of particular concern that the villages of Lytchett Matravers and Lytchett Minster will be swamped by a major new development and that our green belt will be lost to concrete. Little consideration has been given to the special heathland conservation issues in the district, that limit the ability to widen the road network to cater for the increase in population. This will result in further congestion on already heavily congested roads.

We urge every resident of Purbeck to take part in Ms Blears’ consultation to try to persuade this government that we will not accept this serious threat to the future of Purbeck”.

Purbeck District Council is already carrying out its own Western Extension consultation with its residents and will be using the feedback received to make its case for formal opposition to the Secretary of State. Residents have until Friday 8 August to complete this questionnaire.

The questionnaire can be accessed online at the Council’s website, or by calling the Council on 01929 557339.