A referendum on joining a new unitary authority will be held by Christchurch Borough Council, after reports Sajid Javid is 'minded' to support the proposal.
The council had previously cancelled the planned referendum due to the timing of the General Election. However, it will now hold a postal referendum on local government reorganisation in the region.
Cllr David Flagg, leader of the Christchurch Borough Council, said: 'Before making any representations to the Secretary of State about the possible reorganisation of local government in Dorset councillors want to allow Christchurch residents to have their say.
'It is important we take into account their wishes as we are elected to represent them.'
