WEST DORSET REPORT.

The committee has been very busy since the last report and have been involved in a number of planning matters in both Mid and West Dorset.

CPRE members in Cosmore are attempting to have a 40mph speed limit for the village put in place. As Chairman, I spent some time in a lay-bye observing the traffic which speed through the village at sometimes alarming speed. Given the not expected reply to the request, I have written to the County Council’s Chief Executive asking that a meeting be convened to discuss the matter more fully.

Caravans have always been an issue for CPRE and the group at present are still involved in planning issues at Osmington and the Waterside Holiday Park, Weymouth. The Weymouth site is in fact subject to appeal, and the Inspector will be hearing the appeal this coming October. Peter Chance or treasurer has been dealing with both these matters, and will be making representations on behalf of CPRE at the coming appeal. Another caravan matter concerned an application to store caravans on a site in Bothenhampton overlooking the AONB. This matter was challenged both by residents in Bothenhampton supported by CPRE. On this occasion the application was rejected by the Planning Officer.

The West Dorset planning group have been involved in objecting to a planning application to open yet another supermarket, Lidl’s, outside of Bridport town centre. The application is also be opposed by the Town Council. CPRE’s concern is that yet another supermarket in Bridport will have an adverse economic effect on the town centre and seriously damage its ability to retain its character and attract tourists to its market.

Pilsden Pen is an ongoing saga with an attempt to build a large barn at the foot of Pildsen Pen. CPRE were represented at the planning meeting, and the decision was put back for a site visit. The National Trust is also involved in the matter, and is an application that must be fought if the AONB and Pilsden Pen are to be safeguarded.

The group are also involved with the residents in Southam fighting an application that will allow quarrying to take place between Southam and the Portland Bill lighthouse. At present the issue is still a matter of debate, and Portland Town Council is now also involved.

Finally, the group has contacted Dr. Evans office asking for a meeting to discuss a number of issues relating to planning matters that have been raised by members.

Richard Nicholls