DORSET CPRE
Please read letter dated 27th May 2010 confirming the abolition of Regional Strategies (RSS) and return of decision making powers on housing and planning to local councils.
In May 2010 North Dorset CPRE replied to the new North Dorset Plan.
While we have not seen large planning applications in recent months building continues on previously approved sites, most particularly at Blandford and Shaftesbury East. Our overriding aim remains to ensure new building is carried out within settlement boundaries and that the appearance of proposed buildings is appropriate for their local setting.
The Local Plan sensibly directs most house building to towns and larger villages, those with some amenities, and we are vigilant in challenging exceptions while at the same time supportive of affordable housing.
I study planning lists but rely very much on members with local knowledge identifying potential problems. Threats to the countryside come in many forms, expansion of settlements boundaries, overlarge developments on existing sites replacing smaller buildings, pylons and radio masts, super highways and inappropriate developments at farmyards. Support of farming, so essential to the well being of the countryside is a fundamental aim of CPRE. Recently though we have seen cases of bogus farming need being used to justify more and more buildings. We are working with local residents in opposing applications and seeking redress where buildings have been built without permission.
Finally a small bit of good transport news. A new passing loop was installed at Axminster on the Salisbury -
