PLANS for 340 homes have been approved by Dorset Council

The members of Dorset Council's Northern Area Planning Committee voted in favour of the plans by Dorset-based Wyatt Homes.

The developers plan to 'deliver much needed new homes and community facilities' on land north east of Blandford Forum.

The new plans sought full planning consent for 150 homes and have outlined permission for a further 340 on a site adjoining the A354 and the A350.

Wyatt Homes also plan to deliver new pedestrian and cycle connections as well as 2,000 new trees across the site.

It is believed that the public open space covering more than 40 acres will account for nearly 50 per cent of the site.

A spokesperson for Wyatt Homes said: "The new homes will be highly energy efficient and use a range of new technologies to ensure low CO2 emissions, including high levels of insulation, and high specification glazing."

According to the spokesperson, the new homes will also include solar panels, wastewater heat recovery and heat pumps.

The spokesperson also said: "The development will also offer land for a potential new school, allotments, a community hall, shops and play facilities."

A new 'bus infrastructure' has also been mentioned in the plans for development, with 'improved stops and the potential to extend existing routes.'

Pedestrian priority connections have also been highlighted in the plans.

Tom Hoskinson, planning director of Wyatt Homes said: "We are delighted with this strong, positive endorsement by the planning committee.

Mr Hoskinson went on to say that the plan is 'the largest zero carbon ready application which has come before the planning committee,' which he thinks will deliver much needed new homes in Dorset.

"We would like to thank those that commented on the plans during the extensive public consultation over several years, as well as Dorset councillors, those on the Planning Committee and council Officers," Mr Hoskinson said.