The Dorset Review Campaign to Protect Rural England

In this issue • Housing Targets • Forming an Action Group • District Group updates • Events

Autumn 2016 Branch News Issue 107 CONTENTS CHAIR’S REPORT

2–3 Stand up for the Countryside 3 Shaun Spiers AGM Guest Speaker 4–5 Poole and Purbeck Group 5 Dorset Best Village Shop 6 Forming an Action Group 7 Open Day at Waterston Manor 8–9 The Sherborne and District Society 10 Dorset & East Devon NP Proposal 11 Litter Campaigns 12 West Dorset Group 13 Hengistbury Head Trustees Meeting 9th September 2016 14–15 Progress towards our 2026 Vision

16 North Dorset Group To say this has been an eventful year not only allowed us to use her house 18–19 East Dorset Group must be the understatement of the and grounds, but who gave so much of year. However, I can begin my report her time in pursuing the Judicial Review. 20 Minerals and Waste in Dorset with news of our outstanding success. The Judicial Review concerning the 21 Best Dorset Village Shop Housing and Village Shops Mapperton Solar Park was won with However, despite our successes, we now 22 Brian May’s Wood our help. Also, applications for turbines face a deluge of new housing in both in Dorset have come to a halt. In rural Dorset and urban areas. In fact the 23 CPRE Recent Publications regard to both turbines and solar government is demanding that by 2030 24–25 Flooding panel applications I must thank all Dorset must build 73,000 houses. This those CPRE members and committee will in effect mean that the population 25 NFU Open Day members who put so much time, effort of Dorset will rise by at least 150,000. and commitment to defeating the However, I see no plans as to how we are 26 Obituaries applications. I would put on record my to cope with such a rise in population, 27 Dorset CPRE Membership appreciation of the work and expertise especially in terms of infrastructure and of Richard Buxton, our solicitor, and our local services. Regarding local services, 28 Contacts barrister who played such a large part there is also an increasing problem for in our success in the outcome of the many of our older members, mainly Judicial Review. Also not to forget Dr women with no means of transport, in David Peacock, a long-time member of that many villages now have no bus the CPRE, for his time and expertise in service or shop. advising the Branch on matters relating Regarding village shops, the Branch Protecting Dorset to renewable energy. has been active in encouraging villagers Campaign to Protect Rural England to use their local shop where there is one. The contents of this publication are intended Fundraising We sponsor a prize for the best Dorset as guidance and general interest. It does not Another great success was this year’s village shop. Here my thanks goes out constitute legal advice and can be no substitute Open Day held at Waterston Manor, to Rupert Hardy for his enthusiasm for considered advice on specific problems. and we owe this to the hard work and and commitment, and it is through his Although every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information printed in this organisational skills of Katharine Butler work that that I was invited to attend publication, Campaign to Protect and her jolly band of helpers. Even the the Dorset Best Village Awards at Cerne Rural England cannot accept weather was on our side, and not only Abbas Village Hall held in September. liability for errors and omissions. The views expressed in this did we gain new members but raised publication are not necessarily substantial sums for the Branch and for Green Belt those of CPRE. groups who had successfully opposed There is now a growing confusion over Front Cover image – Pearson family enjoying unacceptably damaging renewable the future of our Green Belt sites, which views of Kimmeridge. One of the entries in the energy applications. Our thanks must are mainly located in East Dorset. On Dorset CPRE Photographic competition. go especially to Katharine Butler who this matter we continue to receive

2 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset conflicting views as to their future. On Purbeck, Weymouth and Portland and Proposed Dorset and East one hand we are given assurances that Dorset County Council should be split Devon National Park they are safe, whilst the reality simply up to form two large unitary councils. In concluding, I would say that in order proves the opposite. On this subject I The consultation runs until October, and to combat some of the changes we would like to thank Janet Healy for her it is most important that we all take part face, Sandra Brown, a Branch Trustee, hard work and commitment in defending in it. I along with Dick Heaslip attended has been working with a team to create the Green Belt, not only locally, but a County Council meeting in Dorchester a National Park for Dorset, which if nationally. We must also keep a close eye where Councillors expressed their views. successful will spill over into East Devon. on the Dorset AONB. For example, under This is a contentious issue, and as well as If once achieved, it will give greater the West Dorset Local Plan it allows for the requirement to build 73, 000 houses control over planning matters, and allow an urban extension in the Weymouth by 2030 in Dorset will be a matter for for not only more affordable houses area that will spill over into the AONB. debate by Dorset CPRE Trustees and our for local people to be built, but protect We are also faced with an increase in Countryside Forum. Dorset from overdevelopment. Again, the number of developments allowed the amount of work and commitment outside development boundaries, all of Mineral and Waste policies by Sandra and her husband Richard has which take time and effort on the part of Given the expected rise in population, been exceptional. However, as with any local CPRE Groups trying to counter this. waste collection and its disposal as well such scheme, there are still obstacles as the extraction of minerals will be a to overcome, but I will be able to give real issue for the Dorset CPRE Branch. Future of Dorset’s councils a fuller report on any progress at our I also would draw members’ attention to Here we are lucky to have the expertise forthcoming AGM. the reorganisation of Local Government of Dr John Larkin. Evidence of his that is now under way. The general knowledge and persistence in pursuing proposal is that Dorset is split into Mineral and Waste policies can be found two Unitary Councils. There are five in his contributions to the Dorset Review Chair of Trustees options out for consultation as to how over many years, and we do owe a debt Richard Nicholls Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, of gratitude to the way he has pursued East Dorset, North Dorset, West Dorset, his remit.

SHAUN SPIERS, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OF CPRE, AGM GUEST SPEAKER

We are delighted that Shaun will join us on 19th November for our AGM at Cerne Abbas Village Hall. Current proposals are to start the AGM at 10am and have lunch at 1pm. Please return the enclosed A4 booking form. Shaun has led CPRE since 2004 and is responsible to the Trustee Board for the overall leadership and development of CPRE and its policies, promotion and administration. Previously he was chief executive of ABCUL, the Shaun Spiers credit union trade association. From 1994 to 1999, he was an MEP for the You can read Shaun’s latest views in his blog on South East, serving on the European Parliament’s Agriculture www.cpreviewpoint.wordpress.com and follow him on Twitter and Rural Affairs Committee. He is a trustee of Sustain, the @ShaunSpiers1. Shaun is also Guest Speaker at the society alliance for food and farming, and was a founder trustee of dinner hosted by the Sherborne and District Society on 18th Civic Voice. November, at Sherborne Golf Club, 7pm for 7.30pm.

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 3 POOLE AND PURBECK GROUP HOUSING AVALANCHE THREATENS POOLE’S ENVIRONMENT AND GREEN BELT Poole Local Plan 2. Building higher densities in Poole, or Poole Planners are proposing a major 3. Building over our protected Green Belt. increase in house building for Poole in We have now got a letter from the the draft Poole Local Plan. Under pressure Minister of State for Housing which from Central Government they want totally torpedoes the draft Poole to increase our building rate from 500 Local Plan. He says “the Government homes a year to 710. This means that has put in place the strongest we would have to build 14,200 extra protections for the Green Belt. The homes in the next 20 years. This massive Green Belt boundaries should be adjusted increase will put a major pressure on our only in exceptional circumstances …and environment, Green Belt and Quality of with the support of local people. We have Life. But it is not just Poole: Bournemouth been repeatedly clear that demand for wants to build 19,580 and Christchurch houses alone will not change Green Belt 4,820 extra homes. This total of 38,600 boundaries.” I am sure that the Residents additional homes means some 50,000 will not agree to these proposals if the extra cars and 5,000 commercial vehicles Council follows the Minister’s policy. in the conurbation. Can you imagine the gridlock this will cause? Have you tried New development sites to drive across The Plan proposes 31 new development submitted to the Council a detailed Plan the conurbation sites in the urban area on top of the 13 for the Old Town and the Hamworthy recently in the sites already planned. For instance they development sites. This is currently being rush hour? It want to build some 40 flats on half the reviewed by a Planning Inspector, and will cause chaos Beach Road carpark nearest to the sea, then will be submitted to a Referendum and serious air which will reduce facilities for visiting of all residents and commercial bodies pollution. In total tourists. However the Beach Road carpark who are based in the designated Area. they want Dorset has been under used because of the very We hope to have the plan approved by to build 73,160 poor access signage. But residents beware: November. Once approved the Forum will extra homes – the Seafront Development Plan includes have substantial planning power in the which will put developing the Canford Cliffs Library for Area and will be able to decide on how major pressure housing – which is a critical asset for our to spend about 25% of the Community on our Areas of Community. It also proposes 9 sites in the Infrastructure Levy – worth over £100,000. Outstanding Green Belt for some 5,580 homes. Natural Beauty, Affordable Housing our County heritage and our rural villages. Poole Core Strategy Poole has a desperate need for Before we had this Local Plan we had Affordable Housing, but developers have Housing Needs Analysis the Poole Core Strategy to control been very slow in submitting Planning The Planners have got their analysis wrong. development. But we are very worried that Applications for the 8 brownfield sites. After they developed the “Housing Needs they are not enforcing the Core Strategy. They are refusing to provide 40% of the Analysis”, as laid down by Government, A developer has got Planning Permission new houses as Affordable, as laid down in they were meant to adjust the total for an 8 storey building next to the the Core Strategy– so the Pilkington Tiles allowing for Poole’s Environmental RNLI, and permission for development site is the only one being progressed. Constraints. Poole has probably got of the Salterns Marina and Hotel. They Gallaghers have now withdrawn their more environmental constraints than both breach the Core Strategy in terms application for the Power Station site, as ANY OTHER town in Britain: we have the of height, build density and lack of has the developer for the railway Goods sea on the South, Poole Bay on the West, recreational Open Space. At Salterns, the Yard site, where they wanted to build European protected Dorset Heathland developer wants to build a 7 storey block 300+ flats by moving the rail station 80 and Green Belt to the North, and solid of 73 apartments, and double the Salterns yards to the North. Bournemouth development to the East. hotel with 7 storeys. These will be visual If all this development is allowed Poole So we do not have realistic space for this carbuncles on our precious Poole Bay. will no longer be a “Beautiful Place” – as over-development. As you know, Salterns has only a narrow our logo used to say. Residents’ Quality To achieve this avalanche of houses, access road, and so all this development of Life will seriously deteriorate with Planners are consulting Poole residents would be down this road. traffic congestion, pollution, reduction in about where the extra houses should Green Open Space, loss of Green Belt and go in their draft Local Plan. They offer 3 Local Neighbourhood Plans over-development. alternatives: The Government has encouraged Localism 1. Building taller buildings in the centre and local democracy by encouraging of Poole, submissions of Local Neighbourhood Terry Stewart Plans. A very professional Forum has 4 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Impact on the Purbeck Individual Sites: economy and communities: Individual sites proposed for housing Purbeck communities are concerned development present serious issues of about the impact which PDC’s various kinds. Such issues require full and proposals would have on the proper evaluation before the sites can be character of communities seriously included in any acceptable plan. and the local economy. At this stage it is surprising that the PDC Research commissioned documentation states little about any such by DCC and published in early issues. To assist in this matter, we would 2016 indicates that Dorset’s greatest comment on the salient points as follows :- economic asset is its environment. a) specific site nomination appears A follow on independent study premature in the apparent absence of a suggests how a National Park would relevant register of ‘brownfields’ that bring significant opportunities and are not in areas requiring protection. Purbeck Local Plan benefits for Dorset’s economy and b) substantial numbers of houses added to In July we responded to the consultation communities. The quality of Purbeck’s communities with limited or inadequate on the partial review of the Purbeck Local natural environment and heritage was facilities will make bad situations worse. Plan. The observations and comments assessed, in a 2015 study for the Royal c) fostering / encouraging / imposing we submitted are: Society of Arts (RSA), as in the top 4% commuting indicates non-collaboration nationally. Tourism and associated with those planning authorities SHMA methodology – services represent a significant part of providing employment opportunities. inappropriate and inadequate Purbeck’s economy. Disproportionate d The proposed housing site in Wool assessment of housing need: development would have a very disregards available knowledge about We do not accept the suggested housing negative impact on Purbeck’s economy legitimate constraints including need figures which are produced by the and communities. information about parking, sewage national SHMA methodology as relevant treatment, schooling, lack of or appropriate to Purbeck or our local Need for affordable housing: employment opportunities, wildlife communities. Such data, though they A significant aspect of Purbeck’s habitats and opposition from The Army. purport to reflect Objectively Assessed housing need relates to affordable It is unclear how such a large number Need (OAN), do nothing of the kind. The rather than market housing. Many local of houses fulfil any reasonable need in resulting “housing needs assessments” people cannot afford the high prices of that locality. are in reality just the output of a statistical market housing in Purbeck. Affordable e) The proposed Lytchett Minster site also exercise. The figures do not reflect local housing is needed in order to retain and disregards available information about housing needs at community or district attract young people and key workers, its constraints and would effectively level. and to support local employment and overwhelm the existing facilities with skills. But neither national policy nor obvious ‘over-development’ effects Constraints on Purbeck’s PDC’s proposals address this need. (created by 650 extra houses) upon capacity to accommodate the small current community of additional housing: Infrastructure constraints: approximately 150 voters in about 110 The SHMA statistical estimates of housing Concerns about local infrastructure, premises. need do not reflect the area’s capacity to including road capacity and traffic f) The sites affecting AONBs, “Green accommodate housing development. problems, as well as health and other Belt Zones” and the setting of the Especially in an area like Purbeck – public services, are raised by the high World Heritage Site are generally almost entirely within the Dorset AONB numbers of houses proposed by PDC. unacceptable unless a proven non- and where the natural environment and optional need exists. Such a criterion cultural heritage are recognised as of Neighbourhood Plans reflect must involve valid actual evidence – National Park quality – the environment local needs: as distinct from a notional statistical places constraints on development. A growing number of communities projection of some general data that Purbeck has the highest levels of have developed, consulted on and cannot, by definition, be relevant to the biodiversity anywhere in the UK, and agreed Neighbourhood Plans based on community concerned. relevant areas are designated accordingly. their assessment of local needs and g) The proposed site at Upton could be The SHMA national methodology takes preferences. Higher level Local Plans made to work if enough attention is no account of locally assessed needs should take account of and respect such paid to developing / maintaining wild nor environmental constraints. Ministers community planning. For example, life corridors and the integrity of the have said that local planning authorities Arne PC’s outline Neighbourhood Plan Green Belt Zone. should consider such factors, and propose considers possible provision for about 40 The consultation closed on 12th August changes accordingly, when the SHMA new homes to meet local need. The PC’s 2016 and all responses are now being data are received. But Purbeck District assessment of need differs markedly analysed by PDC. Council (PDC) has made no effort to from the 500 houses at West Wareham do this, nor did the Planning Inspector in Arne parish which are proposed in the Gerald Rigler understand local needs or environmental Local Plan Partial Review. and other constraints. Group Chairman

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 5 FORMING AN ACTION GROUP

GUIDANCE FOR FORMING & FIGHTING AN EFFECTIVE ACTION GROUP CAMPAIGN AGAINST PLANNING APPLICATIONS (PAs) Background and Purpose There has always been the need for effective local campaigning but this is now much increased due to the disruptive changes Protestors at Mapperton including Katharine Butler’s father, Sir occurring within the Local Planning Authorities (LPAs). CPRE Michael Butler, who died in December 2013, 2nd to left in front row (Dorset) will invariably be involved with relevant Projects but has increasingly to rely on Communities leading & funding in to the LPA (when timely) and mass attendance at the eventual their own backyards! The key to success is to form an Action LPA Hearing. This will be supplemented by commissioning of a Group (AG) with its own funding and to build up quickly a Data suitable Report from a Consultant covering Landscape, Heritage Base of maximum numbers of supporters to establish the Action and any other major issues. There will be briefing of Planning Group’s legitimacy, for speaking authoritatively on behalf of the Board members (through your own District Councillor), other Community. Statutory bodies – and of the Media. Forming your Action Group Other possible actions General Public Contribution The key requirements are Leadership, Coordination/Delegation & Even before the PA is lodged with the LPA, get your supporters’ quality Administration. An ideal set up would be say 6-12 persons names on to the Database (door to door canvassing using all AG with (possibly) a Figure Head Chairman, a Meetings’ Chairperson members is the quickest & cheapest way) using your letter/leaflet & Secretary (husband/wife is best option), and others who might plus a Community Briefing in the village hall. Once the PA is have some experience with Fund Raising, Planning, Legal & lodged, the Parish Council may want (and indeed should do) their Media matters. Include a CPRE rep. own statutory trawl to elicit the Public view. It’s essential to keep up Public momentum by regular e-mail updates (Newsletters) – First Steps remembering that you will want them to write to the LPA (in due Choose a good AG Name. Set up a simple web site with an easy course) and to attend the Hearing. Well placed Signboards are (memorable} Domaine name. Instant start-up funds are usually the best way to keep the issue alive in the wider public mind – provided by each Action Group member writing out a cheque – plus Media coverage. not least to serve as an example to others. Then prepare your first letter/Leaflet for publicity purposes – see also later. Make Lobbying of Landowners. Only relevant if the PA has your Meetings fun by including a touch of hospitality with a detailed Agenda to save time and Jaw-Jaw! E-mail is essential not been lodged The aim is to ensure that it never is lodged! Can be hugely for all AG members. A separate Information gathering exercise effective through “many lobbying letters”, Media pressure (Name is recommended (special briefing required). & Shame), Threat of legal action for damages, a Petition – and Aim & Strategy a March or Demonstration using Public Footpaths on their land. The aim of your Group will invariably be “To prevent the Planning For further briefing contact your local District Group. Application being approved”. This will be based on a strategy of liaison with the LPA, wide & timely dissemination of information to your supporters and the wider Public to enable them to write Julien Turner

Crown Meadows party

6 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset OPEN DAY AT WATERSTON MANOR

A big thank you to all our members who visited the gardens on 10th July and to all the volunteers who worked so hard to make it a success. Just under £7,500 was raised. Proceeds from the Open Day totalling almost £3,300 went to Dorset CPRE after deducting costs, clearing No Slyers Lane Turbines’ account balance and Mapperton Preservation Group’s legal costs.

'Ming' vase was found by Tess and Sebastian Hough, and Luke Russell

“Ming Vase” discovered during treasure hunt After 3 hours of intense searching and puzzling over the clues, the ‘Ming’ vase was discovered hidden in the fishpond or ‘rill’ in front of Waterston manor. It was dangling on fish wire, and was pulled out by Tess and Sebastian Hough and Luke Russell, egged on by Tito Butler.

The vase is a 12cm Ming style vase previously in the collection Tess and Sebastian Hough with 'Ming' vase’ of the Duke of Wellington and bought by Katharine in 2015. The answer to the nine clues was ‘intherill’.

Georgina Tichy, Richard Norman and Rupert Hardy speaking to visitors at Open Day

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 7 THE SHERBORNE AND DISTRICT SOCIETY

Local Plan supporting their approved Development The first meeting of the NP working Plan. I am sure you can see the Society’s group of Sherborne District Council Every six months when I sit at my and the Yetminster Parish Council’s (YPC) (Councillor representatives, the Town computer to prepare the report for the frustrations at this turn of events, which Clerk and myself) has recently taken Dorset Review I have a sense of déjà vu, if repeated elsewhere will completely take place. It has been agreed that although and wonder if we will ever have a Local away ones faith in the planning system, if we see some significant challenges ahead Plan (LP) which seems to make sense one had any in the first place! (see my initial section on the LP above,) and is applied rigorously to planning We and the YPC have involved Sir Oliver that a Community Led process to develop applications. I have to say to date I see Letwin in this matter and he is being a NP should commence. In due course no evidence that this is the case locally. supportive. He asked for the Folly Farm there will be public discussion of the Some of the current planning decisions, housing application on Thornford Road process, a Steering Group established, particularly regarding those at Yetminster, to be called in and the Minister refused and work commenced on the plan. I hope appear to me and your committee as the request on 21st September. We now that some of our members will be able to illogical. An application for development have 6 weeks to see if there is a case for contribute to this process. on a greenfield site on the Thornford Judicial Review and have started legal Road, having previously been rejected consultations on this matter. What a pity by the planning committee, was recently Bradford Road that CPRE couldn’t get the Neighbourhood After several months in gestation approved on re-application with strong right of Appeal into the Housing Bill. It Quantum’s ideas for the Sherborne pressure from the planning officers for seems to me invidious that developers can Hotel site were revealed at an Exhibition this decision. In the meantime an appeal appeal a decision but a Parish Council that in July and I hope that many of you is about to take place over another site might object strongly to a development contributed to their consultation. The on the Ryme road. In view of the previous has no say, other than expressing a view proposal includes a hotel of 24 rooms, a decision I am at a loss to know how the and cannot appeal against a planning large function room and assisted living appeal will be fought by the Council. decision unless it is a matter suitable for accommodation in flats and houses, with The background is that both of these judicial review. supporting facilities. Although I am sure proposals are outside the Defined there will be mixed views regarding their Development Boundary (DDB) for proposals, there is need to get a hotel Yetminster and do not meet the criteria Consultations In the Spring Review I reported on our back on the site and whilst we might laid down in the LP for such developments. meeting with the Councils’ strategic not agree with everything, maybe what In addition, although Yetminster is planners at which they suggested we they propose is the best option available. seen as a sustainable location for some opened a dialogue with the Sherborne Currently Quantum are amending their development, the LP makes it clear that Castle Estates. This we have done, and to ideas, based on the views expressed in this should be agreed via a Neighbourhood date have had two useful meetings, one July, for example seeing how more parking Plan (NP). The village has just started with the Estates’ professional advisers and for the hotel can be incorporated ,and will on this path which will be completely the other with Mr Edward Wingfield Digby be putting in a planning application in the circumvented if these developments and the Estates manager. Whilst we differ next few weeks. The intention is to hold proceed, with an increase in population in the approach to developments around a final public exhibition of the designs in of around 40%. This isn’t what any of us Sherborne I have some confidence that the Sherborne Girls School from 15th to expected when we helped to formulate we will be able to influence them when 17th December. the LP several years ago. the review of the LP takes place in the next Restful Homes have put in their Indeed if the intention year or so. There is some advantage in applications for a Nursing Home on having one major landowner surrounding the Girls School site on the corner with was for villages, such as the Town and encompassing some of Horsecastles Lane. We considered the Yetminster, to carry this the villages as well, as any greenfield parking was inadequate but the application development will almost certainly be was approved without any modifications. ‘‘amount of development on their land, so if we can ensure that Similarly Bovis have submitted their shouldn’t it have been these can be kept to reasonable proportions (I doubt we can now spelt out in the LP and stop all any further development t debated during its in Sherborne) and dwellings are of good design, then speculative and consultation process? over-development will be avoided. We had hoped that the Council would What was clear is that the Estates have stuck to its guns on the Thornford also are not happy with how the Road application and let this be decided at Barton Farm housing scheme has appeal. However, having taken barristers’’ progressed but due to the way advice they believe that the DDB argument the land was sold have had no will carry insufficient weight and the influence over design. They have fact that an NP is in progress no weight indicated that this wouldn’t happen either. Hence they appear to be ‘running again. We will maintain contact Sherborrne Hotel proposal July 2016 Artist’s impression of potential architecture for the hotel scared’ (maybe for financial reasons) of and report to members as required.

8 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Award for Geography I recently attended the Gryphon School Prize Giving Ceremony for year 13 on Saturday 17th September in Sherborne Abbey. The Sherborne and District Society CPRE award for Geography went to Arabella Hodgson, from Oborne. Sherborne Hotel Site For identification purposes only, not to any scale Arabella is now going on to read Law at Kings College, London. application for the Bradford Road North Other Developments site (you will remember permission for Bradfords have put in a revised plan for Tinney’s Lane Youth Centre this development was granted at appeal). their warehouse at Barton Farm. As this Personally I am surprised that this hasn’t One of our objectives is ‘to strive to is designated land for their categories received final reserved matters approval, enhance the quality of life in a congenial, of business and as they had improved as several of us spent many hours with cultured, caring community for all in our the landscaping etc. we have indicated Bovis trying to get good designs for the area especially concerning housing, work, we have no objections to this proposal. site. I wonder why, given my earlier leisure and transport’. With this is mind Maybe the site which they release could comments, the housing supply hasn’t the Society’s Committee have agreed a be become available for housing, which been enhanced by agreeing to these grant of £500 to be paid to the Tinney’s would relieve pressure on the greenfield proposals, which should be infinitely Lane Youth Centre, which recently lost sites in the future. I will report on this better, than the Barton Farm site. It its Dorset Council Funding. We are fully when I hear anything further. The Old seems we get approval rapidly for things supportive of the work the new charity Laundry site at Coldharbour has seen we don’t want but delays on things that will do for the Youth of the Town. designs created for a small housing have already been granted in principle! development. I have been in consultation The Girls School Music Centre has been with the developer’s representative and approved. We supported this initiative from what I can see I expect we will which will enhance both the Schools’ support the proposals. In principle we will facilities but will also be an addition to the support brownfield site applications, in facilities available to the local community, line with national CPRE policy. which is a good thing. The Sherborne Boys School have put in an application for a new Sports Hall, Protecting our Local behind their all-weather football pitches Villages off Lenthay road. Whilst we have some I have written extensively already reservations of the impact of the building regarding Yetminster and we will continue on a gateway into Sherborne, we have John West our Treasurer presenting cheque to support the village against its over indicated support with these reservations for £500 to Mike Hatch Chairman of the development with all the resources at raised. We supported the new classroom Friends of Tinneys at its official launch our disposal. I understand that a new block at the Gryphon and this has been in September after its takeover from the application for a small development in approved. We objected to the two houses County Council Bishops Caundle will be re-submitted on Bristol Road opposite to the Gryphon shortly. We supported the original School entrance (again development Events proposals for development on a brown field outside a DDB) but this was approved by In order to better understand the site and with a good scheme for affordable the Planning Committee. interface between rural and urban issues, houses. I expect we will do so again, once Shaun Leavey, one of our committee we have seen the final plans. We objected members, is liaising with a local farmer to a housing scheme in Holwell, which was to organise a farm visit at some time in refused by the Planning Committee but the near future. Once this is finalised we has now gone to appeal. will invite members to attend. Mixed success has been achieved in It has been decided to re-instigate the Milborne Port. The appeal relating to Society Dinner. This will take place on a development at Gainsborough Road November 18th, 2016, at the Sherborne was rejected by the Inspector, on the Golf Club, at 7pm for 7.30pm. Shaun ground of adverse effect on heritage and Spiers, Chief Executive of CPRE, is our landscape, which was excellent news. Guest Speaker. Full details will be sent to However, the appeal against refusal of members. the Solar Farm at the other end of the village was successful, where landscape issues appear to have been rejected. It Peter Neal presenting The Sherborne and PeterGroup ChairmanNeal makes one question the consistency of District Society Award for Geography to Inspectors’ judgements? Arabella Hodgson

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 9 DORSET & EAST DEVON NATIONAL PARK PROPOSAL

A National Park will benefit Dorset’s all of Dorset. The economic benefits go well beyond tourism. National Parks attract inward business investment, promote economy and communities as well as skills, encourage apprenticeships, and build partnerships with the environment. the public, private and not-for-profit sectors, helping partners There is no doubt about the high quality of Dorset’s natural to secure additional funding. They work with famers to secure environment and cultural heritage. From the World Heritage agri-environment funds and project funding for schemes such “Jurassic” Coast to Dorset’s heritage towns and villages, from as food enterprise zones. the Ridgeways with their 1,000 Bronze Age barrows and The Government wants National Parks to be at the centre imposing Iron Age hill forts to the atmospheric heaths – of successful, resilient economies and thriving communities in Dorset’s environment has so much to offer. The diversity of its England’s finest rural areas. geology is reflected in diverse landscapes and farms, and in National Parks are specialized local authorities, run by local the biodiversity for which Dorset is famous. people, and funded by central government. A Dorset & E Devon So it’s no wonder that, when Natural England launched NP is likely to attract around £10m pa in central government a Designations Review, a team presented evidence in 2013 grant. A NP is the planning authority for its area. As National in support of their proposal that the Dorset and East Devon Parks are not subject to government housing targets, they AONBs, including the World Heritage Coast, together with what are well placed to work closely with local communities to remains of Thomas Hardy’s Egdon Heath should be designated promote Neighbourhood Plans and to develop and implement a National Park. This wasn’t a new idea. A Dorset National Park a Local Plan that reflects local needs. Community involvement was recommended in an official report in 1945, and, while in National Park planning chimes well with an aspiration others have gone ahead, most recently the South Downs NP to increase the role of parishes and towns as part of local in 2011, Dorset has unfinished business! Natural England has government reorganization. undertaken a first sift and shortlisted this proposal for further assessment. National Parks are not against What would a National Park offer Dorset? development A National Park would benefit Dorset’s economy and National Parks are not against development; indeed, they communities as well as the environment. A report for Dorset approve a higher percentage of planning applications, and do so County Council earlier this year emphasised that Dorset’s faster, than other local authorities. This is because NP planning greatest economic asset is its environment, worth around staff work proactively with communities and others to achieve £1.5bn a year. In Dorset, the economy and the environment appropriate development in the right locations. National Parks are two sides of the same coin. But this report and others have a good record of supporting the development of affordable by the Dorset Local Nature Partnership also show that homes for local people and keeping them affordable so that our environment is, on various measures, continuing to young people and key workers can remain in and be attracted deteriorate; we are not maintaining the value of our important to the NP area, something which Dorset needs. environmental assets and natural capital. A follow-on report A Dorset National Park may take 5 or 6 years to come into by independent consultants draws on wide-ranging research being. That timescale would allow new Unitary arrangements to illustrate how a National Park would restore and add value to and a Combined Authority to bed down. The NP would fit in Dorset’s environment and economy, in various ways. and work efficiently with new arrangements, bringing valuable A National Park would provide a significant and sustained additional resources and expertise to all its partners. economic stimulus to Dorset. It would do this partly by working with a wide range of partners to take better care of our Latest progress environment. We are familiar with a NP’s duty to conserve and More evaluation is needed and the National Park opportunity enhance the natural environment and cultural heritage, and to has been remitted to Dorset County Council’s Economic Growth promote enjoyment and understanding of the area’s special Overview and Scrutiny Committee. DCC joins North Dorset qualities. DC, West Dorset DC and Purbeck DC in committing to further evaluation and scrutiny of the National Park proposal and its potential benefits for Dorset. Such evaluation has received A National Park would work in close cross party and cross county support, and has been widely partnership with communities welcomed by local communities. The NP Team looks forward to Less well-known is a NP’s third duty: to seek to foster the playing its part in this timely evaluation and scrutiny process. economic and social well-being of its communities. A National Park would work in close partnership with communities, other local authorities, local businesses, farmers and landowners, For further information, see the National Park website: www. to bring opportunities and benefits. Our closest comparator, dorsetandedevonnp.co.uk. The Team welcomes interest and the South Downs National Park, has impressed and inspired help; you can “Contact us” via the website. observers by what the NP Authority and its partners have achieved for the economy, communities and the environment in just 5 years since it began work in 2011. In our area, the National Park brand would give Dorset a Dorset & East DevonSandra National BrownPark Team marketing edge, promote higher value tourism and attract visitors to stay longer and spend more. A National Park could develop and promote a county wide tourism strategy benefiting

10 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset LITTER CAMPAIGNS

Dorset Campaign Against Litter This Campaign was founded by Paul Goldman in 2003 and has now been running for thirteen years. The meeting is held in March, June and October in Stratton Village hall. John Larkin attended a meeting of the Campaign on 9 June. We had reports from litter picking and campaigning groups in Dorchester, Sherborne, Langton, Blandford and Bournemouth and also from the Litter Free Coast and Sea Campaign Marten Gregory, Dorset Waste Partnership (DWP), gave a detailed account of the present kerbside recycling scheme which is working very well with a Fridges dumped on rural road recycling rate of 58.9% which is amongst the best in the country. Some domestic waste goes to the New Earth MBT plant at Canford Magna and some to Dorset Waste Partnership and others present discussed the the Waste to Energy plant at Southampton but 20% still goes clearing up of litter or, better still, stopping it in the first place. to landfill. Several local groups described their litter picking events and DWP are making plans to further reduce the landfill and to John said he was the Honorary Breeding Bird Recorder for a improve recycling by careful optimisation of collection rounds. Purbeck nature reserve of 300 acres and also a self-appointed litter warden. There was much discussion about fly tipping, Litter Free Dorset the removal of waste bins by the Council, and the frequency of The Litter Free Coast and Sea Partnership has functioned well emptying the bins. for three years and it is now planned to extend this to the All those present wanted to work together and avoid whole of Dorset. A new part time post will be recruited and duplication as far as possible. Bridget Mayes is working with managed by Dorset Coast Forum with financial support, over The National Trust and Dorset Waste Partnership to provide 3 years, from DWP. Dorset CPRE will work with DWP to source advice and practical support for volunteers throughout Purbeck. additional funding from other public/private sector companies If you want to help please contact her at litterfreepurbeck@ and charitable fund bids. gmail.com Let’s Make Purbeck Litter-free Dr John Larkin attended the launch of this new campaign at A July poll shows public is Harman’s Cross village hall on 14 July with presentations from The National Trust, Surfers Against Sewage, Litter Free Coast behind bag charge as bag and Sea, and The Dorset Devils from Bournemouth. They all agreed that litter is unsightly and sometimes dangerous to usage drops dramatically residents and visitors, marine life, wildlife, and the environment. ‘‘ Local Councillors, staff from in England The huge fall in the use of carrier bags in England has been complemented by a notable increase in public support for the charge, according to the Break the Bag Habit coalition’’ (BTBH) of anti- litter charities. The Break the Bag Habit coalition consists of the CPRE, Greener Upon Thames, Keep Britain Tidy, Surfers Against Sewage and Thames21. The coalition has long worked towards the introduction of a carrier bag charge scheme in England New Government statistics show that carrier bag usage in England has dropped significantly since a bag charge was introduced last October, with usage decreasing from 7.64 billion bags in 2014 to 0.6 billion in the six months between October 2015 and 6 April 2016.

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 11 WEST DORSET GROUP

led by CPRE members opposing the application, organised a protest walk taking supporters through the intended site that would be subject to quarrying. I can say that the march was not only well supported and reported in the local press, but attended by the Mayor of Portland. There are complex legal implications regarding this matter, and at the time of writing we are unsure as to what the outcome will be. West Dorset applications A second planning application WD/D/16/001598 has been put forward to build 16 homes at The Quarr, Maiden Newton. In the previous application we were of the opinion that amongst other planning considerations it affected the setting of a listed building, the local Grade 1 listed St Marys Church.

Golden Cap looking west towards West Bay, taken by Rob Jayne Increase in traffic on rural roads As with Weymouth and Portland, the West Dorset area faces both huge increases in large housing developments, as well Weymouth applications as smaller developments that break up what are at present A matter of continuing concern as reported in the last Review quiet rural communities. These developments are in turn is the proposed development in Littlemore, a suburb of creating increases in traffic volumes on what were once quiet Weymouth. An application for an urban extension is planned rural roads. An example here is the application for houses that will in fact extend out into the local Areas of Natural in Crossways. A total of 500 houses is called for, which if Beauty (AONB). The developers continue to argue that the agreed will have traffic consequences for the villagers of plans, that include a Business Park and hotel, will improve Owermoigne, itself subject to a small housing development. the AONB. This matter however is still in the planning stage, The narrow country lane that connects Owermoigne with what and will certainly be a matter that local CPRE members will will be the Crossways development is used by local residents take up. Of better news, an application for the building of 340 in and around Owermoigne to both walk their dogs as well dwellings in a field south of Nottington Lane, another suburb as using this quiet country lane for cycling along. With the of Weymouth, was rejected in July by the Planning Committee. new development at Crossways, it is now estimated by local The West Dorset Group, along with many local residents, residents that there will be an increase of around 1000 traffic opposed the application arguing that the magnitude of the movements a day as drivers increasingly use it as a rat run development would not only radically change the character of between the B3390 and the A352. Given that on parts of this the hamlet of Nottington but lead to an unacceptable increase road, two cars have difficulty in passing, the concerns raised in traffic and potential flooding. However, as the case with by pedestrians, cyclists and dog walkers alike is obvious. Here many applications today, we await to see if the developers will as with so many other agreed and proposed developments, appeal the Planning Committee’s decision. little regard is given to the local infrastructure and its ability to cope with such increases in traffic. Flooding on Watery Lane CPRE members attended a Planning Meeting of the Weymouth Bridport and Portland Council to raise a matter of flooding and sewage The same can be said for the market town of Bridport. It now in the aptly named Watery Lane in Upwey. The reason for faces large developments at Vearse Farm, a proposed massive our concern is the recently approved 8 houses will be linked housing and commercial development on West side of the town, into the drainage and sewage system that flowed into Watery and in and around the Bridport coach station in the South West Lane, making the problem even more unacceptable for local Quadrant. Here there is little doubt that no thought whatsoever residents. The matter raised a great deal of debate amongst has been given to the local infrastructure, nor for that matter, the Councillors present, and we were successful in getting an local services, matters that in the past would have been agreement that no development could commence until Wessex considerations taken into account by planners. However, this Water put forward a report outlining what improvements were situation is now a growing problem for CPRE across the rest of required to resolve a potential health hazard. The application the country. Housing figures are now set by Government with it has now been withdrawn. would seem with little regard for views of local residents and for housing need. Of course, as an organisation, we have often had Quarrying on Portland disagreements with planners, but today they simply set housing I can also report that local CPRE members on Portland continue targets that they must achieve, which in turn means they cannot to fight a proposal that would allow quarrying to take place in an take into account matters such as adequate infrastructure and unspoilt stretch of coastline between the Portland Lighthouse services which in the past was part of their remit. The number and Southwell, a nearby village. This is a long standing matter of houses required in West Dorset under the present legislation in which the CPRE Branch has been involved and in the past, I and to be built in the next 20 years to 2033 is 15,500. along with John Larkin, Minerals and Waste Adviser to Dorset CPRE, attended several meetings supporting local residents opposing the application. In June, a group of local residents, RichardGroup Nicholls Chairman

12 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset HENGISTBURY HEAD

Returning to Bournemouth after years teaching elsewhere, I am bowled over by the work done at Hengistbury Head. It is one of the jewels in Dorset’s crown for so many reasons; now being a Scheduled Ancient Monument and a Site of Special Scientific Interest in so many ways. I find it so heart-warming that one quarter of our national flora, (500 species) is found here. Where else could one see a 13 spotted ladybird, a natterjack toad or a skylark; a few miles from the huge sprawl of Bournemouth and Poole; Christchurch Priory being approximately a mile, as the crow flies, over the water? Particularly pleasing is the story of the natterjack toad. It was re-introduced in 1989 to Hengistbury Head and now has a decent sized extended family. This, I think, must be an example for us all; especially those with gardens. A trip to the Visitor Centre at Hengistbury Head, BH6 4EN, will provide all the help needed.

Pond at the Visitor Centre where children can pond dip

trading people for 12,000 years. The wild garden adjacent to the centre is absolutely stunning. There is a constant hum of buzzing, with all sizes of bee, wasp, flying insect and butterfly diving into the wealth of meadow, seaside and salt friendly flowers. It reveals what hard work, knowledge and dedication can produce. Copying this example, our Southbourne garden welcomes a huge variety of birds, insects and small animals with the provision of three shallow tray bathing ‘lidos’. We too have a variety of ‘homes’.

Species decline Natterjack toad © Brian at Hengistbury Head In the past, bogs and marshes were simply eradicated, for a farming land in the main. Now, we have species decline in every area, with much lamentation. We must have more sites Explore – Learn – Discover like Hengistbury Head in every corner of the UK. It has to come The centre is superb, with information very well presented, from the ground up, with local people continuing to weigh in telling visitors the long story of the area, from Upper and say ‘No’! Paleolithic through the Stone, Bronze and Iron Ages to the An example of ‘riding roughshod’ would be the voracious present day. The display of finds from the settlements here is Victorians. They damaged the area by taking away many iron very impressive. The Head was a significant Iron Age trading rich Dogger Stones, causing considerable erosion. Indeed a centre, trading iron, silver and bronze for fruit, wine, glass and sizeable chunk of land has been lost in the last 200 years. Much oil from the Mediterranean. The area has had settlements of however, has been done to right these wrongs. Bournemouth Council built the Long Groyne in the 1930’s. A great deal has been achieved by the Poole Bay Partnership, with gabion revetment, or ‘stones contained in wire’. Young people need to be educated to think about the kind of future they want, for themselves and their children. Without new generations from all walks of life, we will be swamped by the wants of big business and ill-conceived house building schemes. Not for our profit, or the county’s either. Species decline threatens us.

Margaret Morgan CPRE Member

Beehive at the Visitor Centre

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 13 PROGRESS TOWARDS OUR 2026 VISION

This article appeared in Fieldwork and certification schemes for local Summer 2016 edition produce. CPRE’s Vision for the Countryside in 2026 contains 62 statements covering topics as diverse as green belts and CPRE has played a green energy to farming and beautiful landscapes. It encompasses the full key role in equipping range of subjects which CPRE actively campaigns on, as well as those which, local communities whilst essential for the fulfilment of with the tools required CPRE’s overall aims, are carried out by ‘‘ other organisations. to create their own As part of the process that is currently being undertaken to develop the next neighbourhood plans CPRE Strategic Plan 2017-2019, an assessment was undertaken of the progress that has been made towards The creation of a better planning system this Vision since it was first published – one that protects the countryside The frustrations and defeats in 2009. This analysis has allowed CPRE and enables local communities and to take stock of national successes and One of the key frustrations of the local decision makers a say in local’’ quantitative analysis was the lack of those across our branches and districts, development – is a major element of as well as identifying those areas which a regularly updated data set across CPRE’s campaigning. CPRE has had some important issues. The most recent may need to be the focus of our efforts some successes across a range of issues, in the future. Of the 14 indicators, 3 information on hedgerows and soils, including obtaining (mostly rhetorical) for example is almost 10 years old. This illustrated progress in the last 6 years; support for the Green Belt across 6 have seen little or highly variable means that whilst qualitative opinion on political parties; gaining traction (and these elements suggest that the length change; and 5 have taken us further Government funding) for the idea of away from achieving the Vision. of hedgerows is declining and the quality ‘brownfield first’ and the commitment of our soils is worsening, it is difficult to to a brownfield register; and CPRE and The great campaigns assess the real situation – in the context of its branches have played a key role positive stories from branches promoting More of England’s landscapes are in equipping local communities with hedge-laying schemes and the 18% protected for more reasons. The extension the tools required to create their own increase in the number of hedgerows to the Lake District and Yorkshire Dales neighbourhood plans, following the protected by the Hedgerows Regulations National Parks was announced in Localism Act 2011. between 1998 and 2010. 2015 and means that these beautiful It is clear that attitudes towards landscapes are better protected. In ‘sustainable development’ and the addition, CPRE’s maps of dark skies have environment have also not developed in been used as evidence for three areas of The presumption in the way that CPRE would have hoped for. England (the Northumberland, Exmoor Economic precedents reign supreme; for and South Downs National Parks) that favour of sustainable example, the NPPF’s presumption in favour have received Dark Sky status, enabling development is giving of sustainable development is giving their Management Authorities to push the green light to developers, leading to for better lighting strategies to ensure the green light to continued loss of Green Belt land and open the longevity of England’s properly dark ‘‘ countryside, with ever-increasing housing skies. developers, leading targets. At the same time, the proportion of new homes being built on brownfield CPRE’s Stop the Drop campaign has led to continued loss of land has decreased over the past 6 years, to the development of over 840 Litter suggesting our Vision that “successful Action Groups showing that there is less Green Belt land urban regeneration…has been crucial in ‘tolerance’ for litter. There has also been a protecting the countryside” is even further 6% drop in the number of sites suffering from being the case then before. from unacceptable levels of litter in the After much branch-led campaigning In addition, despite the rise of Local Environmental Quality Surveys to prevent energy developments where Neighbourhood Planning, the devolution of England (LEQSE). The 5p plastic bag the benefit of renewable energy did not of decision making is not being carried charge has been widely supported. outweigh landscape and community’’ out in a democratic way. 10 million Research commissioned by CPRE impacts, CPRE also welcomed the people are now involved in neighbourhood into local food webs has highlighted the change in government policy to ensure planning, but there is no mechanism for scale and importance of local food to that onshore wind energy developments their effective involvement in devolution the national economy. There has also must be backed by local communities, deals or the activity of Local Enterprise been an increase in pride in local food, and give more weight to cumulative Partnerships. illustrated by the rise of the gastropub visual impact.

14 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Hope for the future the use of the country’s natural assets, including the countryside. As Shaun Neighbourhood planning is the best Spiers notes in his narrative to the Vision planning innovation for many years; Assessment: “If we were writing the if the system is strengthened to give Vision today we would use the frame neighbourhood plans adequate weight of natural capital, setting out the wide against speculative development, range of benefits that a healthy natural it can be considered a great environment brings. In particular, we democratic gain. But in the would draw out the fact that improving absence of real progress towards access to a Green Belt richer in nature our Vision of a country where is essential to meeting the nation’s quality of life is valued aspirations for natural capital.” And as highly as economic Shaun’s conclusion still holds true: “It is growth, could an economic an attractive vision. It is worth fighting valuation of nature and for. But we need major changes in the environment – through policy, thinking and feeling if we are to natural capital – enable us to achieve it.” more effectively protect the landscapes that are valued by local communities? Find out more: Read our full Assessment The Natural Capital Committee of Progress against the CPRE 2026 Vision was established after our Vision was at http:// www.cpre.org.uk/news published, to advise the Government on

HELP YOUR SOLAR PANELS SHINE

Get them right, and they can be an attractive part of your home and lower your electricity bills. To help you do so, CPRE have just launched a brand new guide that outlines best-practice principles to avoid common design pitfalls in solar installation on your property. This guide was put together by CPRE with financial support from CPRE Gloucestershire. It is based on the report Ensuring Place-Responsive Design for Solar Photovoltaics on Buildings produced for CPRE by BRE National Solar Centre. The report is available at www.cpre.org.uk/resources.

The South Dorset Ridgeway Dr John Larkin attended an excellent, if rather lengthy, course this summer at Kingston Maurwood College entitled Understanding the Dorset Ridgeway. This high ground between Abbotsbury and Osmington is regarded by many professional archaeologists as second in importance in this Country only to the World Heritage Site at Stone Henge and Avebury. Maiden Castle is the largest and most complex Iron Age fort in northern Europe, The Valley of Stones is the biggest conglomeration of sarsens in the Country and there are over 500 Bronze Age barrows in the area. He will endeavour to write some of this up for the next issue of the Dorset Review.

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 15 NORTH DORSET GROUP

Developments is necessary to meet an increasing population but numbers and HOME INSURANCE location are critically important; the number of houses now being The planning scene remains relatively quiet with economic built in our market towns is out of proportion to their size and uncertainties and BREXIT. However, permission has been given facilities available. for 61 houses at Blandford St Mary and 35 houses at Bourton. A further application for a large solar installation at Mapperton was recently overturned and uncertainty over Dinah’s Hollow and Events the C13 road continues. At Shaftesbury various plans are being Our AGM at Clayesmore School, Iwerne Minster in April was very discussed for a new school, health centre and playing fields. successful and well attended. The speaker was Deborah Croney, Approval has recently been given by the North Dorset District leader of North Dorset District Council, who described how the Council for 61 houses on Dorchester Hill, Blandford St Mary council is approaching the future and is generating appropriate following some changes to improve design layout and landscaping. policy initiatives. There will be 18 affordable units. At Bourton approval was given  OFF in July for 35 houses at the former mill site. The site, derelict for more than ten years, has long attracted controversy but the parish council now appears satisfied that concerns over possible flooding HOME INSURANCE and the fate of the mill buildings have been resolved. We still await clarity on long term prospects for the C13 in Melbury Abbas. Meanwhile Dinah’s Hollow is swathed in concrete IF YOU HAVEN’T CLAIMED IN YEARS and traffic controlled by lights. As county and district councils strive to expand school, health and sports facilities in Shaftesbury, local architects, Proctor, Watts, Cole and Rutter tabled plans for these facilities at various local sites at the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Show in August. The And if you come to claim, Countryside Restoration Trust which believes that farming and wildlife can coexist well has recently acquired Bere Marsh Farm there are no forms and at Shillingstone, close to the North Dorset Trailway; the farm was owned for many years by Angela Hughes, who pioneered the no quibbles. founding of Dorset Wildlife Trust. Mapperton Solar Park You will, I know, be delighted to hear that approval by East Dorset District Council, of a further application for a large solar installation at Mapperton, was recently overturned in the High Court, following action by local residents and CPRE. The application covering more than 100 acres had aroused strong local opposition and affected villages in North Dorset. Local Plan While I say that the planning scene is quiet we should not be complacent. Government has not done nearly enough to You won’t fi nd us on comparison sites. incentivise use of brownfields sites by developers. Greenfield sites often require less costly preparation and executive houses in popular villages command higher prices than most city houses For a home insurance quote call us on outside London, Bath and a few other hotspots. North Dorset is highly vulnerable and it was shocking, therefore, that the planning inspector quadrupled the number of houses proposed  ­ €‚ƒ„„ for the villages in the Local Plan following the Enquiry in Public. This will make it more difficult to confine building to areas or pop in and speak to us at within settlement boundaries, threatening open countryside. Neighbourhood Plans are potentially very important in directing NFU Mutual, The Creamery, Station Road, and or restricting development but time only will show their real Our summer party at the end of August was at Long Barn, efficacy in practice. Sturminster Newton DT† †BD. Preston Farm, Tarrant Rushton through the kind hospitality of Councils respond to applications as they arise, doing little to members, Tony and Jill Vasey. Members, some 40 in all, explored prioritise brownfield development and indeed their powers to do their remarkable garden in brilliant evening sunshine with its rare so are limited. Large towns and conurbations have brownfield trees, gurgling river and panoply of bridges of varied and intricate land and importantly the necessary infrastructure to support designs. Indoors they examined the many beautiful maritime development: jobs, schools, health centres, public transport etc. models. All North Dorset towns are seeing overloaded schools, health centres and increasing traffic on local roads as a result of excessive house building in recent years. CPRE recognises that new housing No Claims Discount applies to NFU Mutual Standard Home Insurance. Stephen Howard Agent of the National Farmers Union Mutual Society Limited. 16 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset

J16025 CPRE Dorset 105x 148mm 02_2016.indd 1 09/02/2016 17:42 HOME INSURANCE  OFF HOME INSURANCE IF YOU HAVEN’T CLAIMED IN YEARS

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Agent of the National Farmers Union Mutual Society Limited. Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 17

J16025 CPRE Dorset 105x 148mm 02_2016.indd 1 09/02/2016 17:42 EAST DORSET GROUP

Planning Applications are serving schools and colleges. Although the public can use these buses, they do not run in school holidays. 3/16/1291/OUT Land North and South of Edmondsham Road, From the new development to the centre of the village is Verwood about a 10 minute walk (if you are young and fit) but the main The CPRE are very concerned about this outline planning supermarket is at least a 15 minute walk away. Too far for application. All matters are reserved but for access and 230 most to carry a weeks shopping if you are without a car. The dwellings. However, the details on some of the maps go as far as Transport Assessment also boasts of Verwood’s comprehensive showing blocks of flats with the number of flats in each block. bus service and cycle network but it is also wrong. Plenty of We feel that this outline planning application is an indication recreational cycling but too far to most employment centres. of what may be proposed in a full application and ought to be modified before it is submitted. Cuthbury Allotment site The key objection points we raised in our letter to EDDC (East Following the article in the spring edition there is nothing Dorset District Council) are: new to report on Cuthbury except that a company has now demolished the sheds and fences on the old allotment site. We The proposed number of homes don’t know if the new allotments are up and running yet. The Core Strategy, Policy VTSW4, says that this new neighbourhood should provide ‘about’ 230 homes. We consider 230 in this Pennyfarthing development, in addition to the 40 Christchurch and East Dorset Local Plan proposed by Bargate Homes Ltd, is too many. 270 homes are The consultation will run from 28th September 2016 for 6 not ‘about’ 230 homes. weeks until 9th November 2016. The consultation document The numbers need to be reduced so there can be more and further details of the Local Plan Review are available on private space for the residents. We find the development to the the website http://www.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/cedc-local-plan- north of Edmondsham Road is far too close to existing houses. review

Impact on the surrounding countryside Land North of Ringwood Road, Alderholt The development is set within an Area of Great Landscape We are very concerned about this outline planning application. Value (AGLV). The perimeter of the development should be It does not appear in the Local Plan and we feel that this would designed to blend into the surrounding country, but it seems set a precedent if approved and the flood gates would be open that there will be a small number of 2 ½ and 3 storey houses. to countless additional planning applications which would We must ask if this is appropriate for a rural area designated place the planning department and Council under considerable an AGLV? Will the blocks of flats respect and enhance their stress. surroundings? The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) We have just been advised that a review of the Local Plan paragraph 109: The planning system should contribute to and is underway but have not yet had a chance to study it, if enhance the natural and local environment by: protecting and this site is to be considered it should appear in the Review. enhancing valued landscapes…………..’. Otherwise, as stated above, this would set a precendent for In the Sustainability Statement 3.4 Health and Wellbeing, developers to bring forward any site they thought they could the final bullet point ‘where possible homes will be designed to get away with which would place the Planning Department include private gardens to provide private outdoor recreational under an intolerable strain. The developer argues that this site space’. Any properties designed for families should have a is necessary as we do not have a sufficient 5 year supply of reasonable private outdoor space where children can play housing, but developers should not be allowed to interfere with safely. The papers are full of articles on childhood obesity, local affairs, especialy when they are in hand. private outdoor space, large enough for play, is vital and should We accept that there is doubtless a shortage of affordable be provided in a rural area like Verwood. Blocks of flats should housing. This is possibly because the Planning Department are also have private communal gardens where residents can sit bowing to pressure and the developers are not providing the in peace. The proximity of a SANG should not take the place of ‘upto’ 50% affordable housing that was promised in our Local private outdoor space. Plan. Transport links The documentation suggest Verwood is a sustainable location Janet Healy with good transport lnks. If you own a car it is not a bad location but without a car it is very difficult, if not impossible, to get to some places that provide key services. CHRISTCHURCH AREA Cycling is not a realistic alternative to the car as Verwood is so far away from most centres. Bournemouth is 24km to the Beach Retreats at Highcliffe south, Poole is 31km to the south. Ferndown Industrial Estate ( a major employer) is approx 20km to the South. The nearest Due to people power and assistance from myself on behalf small town is Ringwood, 9km to the north. of CPRE, Plum Pictures, sponsors of the 12 Beach Retreats at Planning documents also say that Verwood has a good bus Highcliffe, have cancelled their contract with the Council due network. What it fails to mention is that the X6 is the only to breaking the terms and conditions. comprehensive service covering a circuit of Bournemouth to The Council, on their part, have withdrawn their submission Poole, calling at Verwood, West Moors, Ferndown and Ringwood. to Natural England to erect the Retreats on a SSSI site. The whole Apart from the 302 which has 1 bus a day, all the other buses process has quite literally taken place behind closed doors

18 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Primarily, the properties will accommodate families with the possible inclusion of a school/sports pitch/play area/ community building within the proposal. On behalf of CPRE I anticipate being in a position to comment on the full planning application in due course. Christchurch Quay litter The idea behind removing the litter bins at Christchurch Quay was laudable enough – reducing expenditure and encouraging visitors/residents to take litter home. But, in practice, people were utilizing dog waste receptacles and dropping litter anywhere necessitating collectors being hired to remove said items. Due to strong objections, voiced by various local organisations, the Councils have relented and reinstalled the bins before the expiry of the trial period. There are still plans to conduct a similar experiment elsewhere on non-specified sites. East Dorset Group needs volunteers All volunteers would be welcome, but especially from the countryside part of East Dorset. Please get in touch with Linda Williams, Dorset CPRE, on 0333 577 0360. Highcliffe view from the shoreline taken by David Skipper The need we have in the Christchurch and East Dorset District for a stronger and more powerful voice is growing. There has with the Council finding themselves financially compromised never been a greater need to re-establish this group. and their reputation severely damaged. I recently attended the CPRE National Office Induction Day Currently the proposal is still ongoing, but hopefully the in London. It was a very useful exercise in allowing us to meet whole project will be reduced in size and number. up with various individuals at head office. Coincidently monies have been provided by the Council to improve the access/egress to/from the site area. David Skipper CPRE Volunteer covering Christchurch area

DORSET CPRE MEMBERSHIP

Membership of CPRE not only helps fund the organisation’s campaigning work and maintain a team of nationally acknowledged experts – but can also bring benefits to individual members.

A number of Dorset properties and those in neighbouring counties offer discounts on admission prices with half-price entry deals available at over 200 properties throughout England. Dorset CPRE members also receive – Two Dorset CPRE reviews per year, Spring and Autumn Countryside Voice magazine, twice a year Fieldwork, our quarterly newsletter to help you View looking West toward Highcliffe taken by David Skipper campaign Membership of your local county branch Greenfield Development Access to our Planning Hotline for advice from CPRE 1000 new homes have been granted outline planning staff permission on a greenfield site – Roeshot Hill, between the Further information can be obtained by writing to us at railway line and the A35. Described as the Christchurch Urban – Dorset CPRE, PO Box 9018, Dorchester, DT1 9GY or by Extension – detailed plans are in the process of being drawn up calling 0333 577 0360, or via our website www.dorset- for submission by developer Taylor Wimpey. cpre.org.uk

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 19 MINERALS AND WASTE IN DORSET

Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Draft This updated Plan was recently put out for further Consultation until 21 July and I submitted some further Minerals Sites Plan comments on behalf of the Branch. This Plan has been updated to take account of the comments The Draft Waste Plan, once adopted, will cover the submitted by Dorset CPRE and many others in the Consultation management of all wastes including household, commercial period during last year. and industrial, construction and demolition, hazardous wastes, This updated Plan was recently put out for further and waste water. Consultation until 21 July and I submitted some further comments on behalf of the Branch. Twenty-seven minerals sites have been nominated to the Consultation on possible changes to Mineral Planning Authority at Dorset County Council (DCC). Dorset’s Household Recycling Centres These will identify the locations of future mineral development Charges will be made at the HRCs for old tyres and building required to deliver the 2014 Minerals Strategy. wastes such as rubble and plasterboard. The Dorset Waste Partnership, like all other Local Government Imerys Ball Clay Operations Dorset – Bodies, is required to reduce its costs in these difficult times. Community Liaison Group Winfrith Site Stakeholder Group I attended a meeting of the Group at the Springfield Hotel in Wareham on 25 April. John Vine, Minerals Planning Manager I attended a meeting of this Group on 21 April at Winfrith at Imerys, gave a presentation about recent activities. Newburgh village hall. At Povington discussions continue with DCC about the Susan Adams explained that the decommissioning designated RAMSAR area, a review of resources has been continues on the primary containment and on the reactor core carried out and some more drilling will be done shortly. of the SGHWR and a start is being made on the Dragon reactor Imerys are also working with the Environment Agency on two core. Decommissioning will continue as previously planned discharge consents. but now may not be completed until 2022/3 At Trigon an application has been made to DCC to extend the Adam Davies, Environment Agency, said that local present development time for the site. Exploration drilling in the monitoring of pollutants in south Dorset showed levels that west of the site has been completed and a planning application were less than one half of one percent of the allowed to DCC will be made when the results have been evaluated. Government limits. Doreys South open-cast ball clay pit Dorset Green Technology Park The removal of overburden continues, some new screening We are still waiting for news from the Dorset LEP, the Purbeck bunds have been created, Doreys Lake has been backfilled and District Council and the Homes and Communities Agency will be prepared for seeding shortly. about the redevelopment of this site for advanced engineering and technology companies. Arne lagoon This restored ball clay pit and its surrounds continue to Geological Disposal Facility naturalise and are attracting a wide variety of wading and We await the publication of the new Review from The British other birds. A large number of acorns were planted to generate Geological Survey which will identify places where Britain’s an oak wood on the western side of the water. radioactive waste might be safely buried. The Furzebrook Restoration Project Swanage Railway This restored industrial site which was used for many years by The trial timetable for the new passenger service between BP and then by Perenco to support the Wytch Farm oilfield also Swanage and Wareham will now take place in the summer of continues to grow and mature slowly. next year. Wytch Farm Purbeck Heritage Network The next meeting of the Wytch Farm Oilfield Consultative I attended a meeting of the Network on 16 March. David Brown Committee will be on 29 September and I will report on that spoke about the National Trust’s Cyril Diver project involving meeting in due course. large numbers of people in identifying and recording species on the South Haven Peninsular at Studland. These results will Jurassica be compared with Captain Diver’s studies in the late 1930s. The Trustees are presently working on the necessary Planning One of the benefits of this work for the Trust has been Application for this important project in a worked-out stone collaboration with Bournemouth University and other quarry at Broadcroft Quarry on the Isle of Portland. universities on research projects at various levels from undergraduate to Ph D. Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Draft Waste Plan This Plan has also been updated to take account of the Dr John Larkin comments submitted by Dorset CPRE and many others in the Minerals and Waste Adviser to Dorset CPRE Consultation period during last year.

20 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset BEST DORSET VILLAGE SHOP 2016

Dorset CPRE was very pleased to be sponsoring again a class in this year’s Best Village Competition organised by Dorset Community Action. Village shops face relentless competition from the supermarket chains and discounters. Besides in and out-of-town major outlets, the chains now offer convenience stores and deliveries to every corner of the countryside while the introduction of the Minimum Living Wage is raising staff costs . It is not surprising the number of Dorset village shops has fallen by a third to about 150 outlets now from 224 in 2006. This is a shocking figure with a lot due to Post office closures. For any who question these figures prepared by Dorset Community Action, we are including all shops or outlets selling food in settlements under 1,000 population. More are likely to close unless we help them. Carole Bernie, Corfe Castle Village Stores with Rupert Hardy © Dorset Echo Shops have to innovate and bring in new lines Corfe Castle Village Stores Village stores can of course showcase our marvellous local foods, whose production we wish to promote here in Dorset. Most local The stores was taken over by its current owners two years ago post offices are integrated into stores now, but it is not an easy after its predecessor went bust soon after a makeover from Mary situation with the Post Office trying to convert more beneficial Portas. It has enjoyed a major refit and now offers a wide range Community PO contracts into PO Local ones, often using of produce with particular attention to delectable local foods. bullying tactics, where the PO has to open all hours the shop The shop is attractively presented with flowers and hanging does but only getting paid for actual transactions. There may baskets outside. Last year they incorporated a Post Office Local be increased footfall from a PO but the contribution to profits is so the village did not lose this facility. It tries hard to meet the minimal or can even be negative. Traditional ranges that have needs of both locals as well as tourists in the summer, and offers supported village shops, such as newspapers and tobacco are a large range of extra services and supports local events. also in steep decline so shops have to innovate and bring in new lines. Overall we are hoping this competition will highlight the better retailers and show others what can be done too. The criteria used for this award were evidence of good customer service, the shop acting as a community hub, innovation in terms of product range and services, and how much local food they are selling and promoting. Amazing what some shops provide from very small premises Corfe Castle Village Shop A broad range of products at both ends of the price spectrum which are attractively‘‘ presented, lots of local fresh and other Dorset Cerne Abbas Village Stores foods, friendly attentive staff, newspaper and food deliveries, extensive opening hours, a dry cleaning and prescriptions service, It presents itself as an attractive traditional general village facilitating charity and village events, post office opening hours store with an enviable range of produce. It promotes delicious beyond the usual paid two or three hours a day,’’ food hampers local Dorset foods and offers a wide range of services to the for holiday-makers, a good website and product innovation. The community as well as visitors in the summer. Not many village better retailers mostly all offer these and it is amazing what some shops are open until 6pm every day and yet deliver newspapers shops provide from very small premises. and bake fresh croissants before opening. Help Needed Mosterton Village Shop The shop was taken over recently by its current owners, who In 2014 we launched a campaign to help Dorset village shops. dragged it back from the brink of closure and reopened it last If only each household spends a few more pounds each week year after a major refit. It is a bright, modern convenience store in their local store, if only parish councils were encouraged which tries hard to meet the needs of the village and now offers to help these shops resolve local parking issues etc, if only all a large range of produce and extra services. district councils were urged to give 100% business rates relief The judges declared Corfe Castle the winner, but Cerne and automatically then the situation would be so much brighter. Mosterton came in as worthy runners-up. Please do visit these With the expected move to two unitary authorities in Dorset we stores, but do remember all Dorset village shops deserve would hope the new councils will be generous. Therefore please your support. spend more and make your voice heard! This year our three main contenders were Corfe Castle Village Stores, Cerne Abbas Village Stores and Mosterton Village Shop. Rupert Hardy (One of the Judges)

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 21 BRIAN MAY’S WOOD THREE YEARS ON

were planted over the following year in what was one of the largest new woodland planting schemes in the south of England. The woodland has become known by local residents as ‘May’s Wood’. The trees planted at the community planting day were predominately native species, especially oak, with the exception of walnut and conifer to provide winter cover. Due to the current status of ash die-back, no The wood in 2016 looking west taken by ash trees were planted. Rupert Hardy Dr May said he wanted to create an environment where people and animals can exist together. He explained “I come from a place of playing guitar and music, but I’ve always had a concern about animals which led to the founding of my charity, Save Me (www.save-me. org.uk). Our basic philosophy is that this land used to be forest hundreds of years ago and now I want to re-claim it on behalf of our wildlife. Eventually it will Brian May planting a tree in 2013 at Bere form a wildlife corridor and link on with Regis © Save Me Trust the wildlife meadow”. Three years ago in September several hundred smiling villagers from Bere Pedestrian public access Regis and Shitterton joined Queen Eight fields have being planted as part guitarist Dr Brian May and founder of of the May’s Wood conversion from Sandra Archer and her dog in the wood in 2016 taken by Rupert Hardy Save Me Trust, a wild animal welfare agricultural land into new woodland charity, to plant the first 600 trees in a habitat. Responsible pedestrian public new woodland he has created on land access is being encouraged over most Learn more about the purchased from a developer. The event areas, with gates through sections natural world marked the start of a project to establish where deer fences are erected and clear Anne Brummer from Save Me Trust a new woodland on the 157-acre site by paths and rides set out to make a diverse commented how they are looking to the southern side of Bere Regis, which experience to the visitor. The margins hold annual events here and planning an was previously intensively farmed. It of the woodland will have a graduated eco-building too. A new primary school is now becoming a wildlife haven and edge with lower growing woody shrubs has been built on the edge of the wood habitat as well as a place local people such as viburnum, hazel, hawthorn, bird so the children can learn more about can enjoy. cherry and spindle being planted though the natural world from their back door. Dr May, who has a PhD in Astrophysics areas retained and managed for wild A current focus is on protecting dormice, and comes from Dorset farming stock, flowers. building boxes for them in the hazel now hopes his project will inspire others Some local farmers did express coppices, and helping hedgehogs which to plant woodlands across the country, reservations about the project given are now a threatened species. They creating and preserving wildlife habitats the strong opposition Save Me mounted will be providing log piles which will be particularly in areas like Dorset where to stop badger culls. However Dr May fenced off ironically from the badgers, woodland is in decline. said he had no intention of bringing in which are the hedgehog’s biggest More than 100,000 trees and shrubs badgers. predator. The native Corn Marigold has survived May’s Wood Now the change from arable to woodland, A recent visit on a hot summer’s day while wild flowers, such as Ox-Eyed showed the trees doing well with Daisy, Dogwood and Campion are many over two metres high now. Local thriving among the wild grasses between residents, such as Sandra Archer, are the trees. using the wood regularly, and she As the lyrics go in Queen’s song commented how enjoyable it was for Winter’s Tale “It is all so beautiful like a walking both dogs and children. Peter landscape painting in the sky”. If only Wharf, the local District Councillor, more Dorset communities could find said:” It has been brilliantly helpful to benefactors like Brian May! Georgie and Mia planting a tree in 2013 at the village, providing long-term security Bere Regis © Save Me Trust for the protection of Bere Regis”. Rupert Hardy 22 DORSET Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset CPRE RECENT PUBLICATIONS

CPRE National Office publishes a number of reports based on detailed research. Here is a summary of the most recent reports that can be found on CPRE Resources webpage www.cpre.org.uk/resources: Farming CPRE released its first Food and Farming Foresight paper, New Model Farming, on 17 August. Pointing to significant drops in soil quality and wildlife populations, senior rural affairs campaigner Graeme Willis sought to ignite debate about how we can create a more environmentally resilient farming sector post-Brexit, while still producing the food we need. He argued that we must pursue greater diversity - in farm size, type and people – to secure rewards ‘beyond food’: such as beautiful landscapes, clean water, and better flood management. Such diversity, driven by changes to public subsidy and more transparency in land ownership, would still produce the food we need and make the sector more publicly accountable. The report received good media coverage and was covered in The Times, along with a column by senior rural affairs campaigner and the report’s author Graeme Willis. CPRE spokesperson Cate Mack was interviewed on the Today programme and BBC Breakfast, and the report was covered on BBC news bulletins Devolution in England throughout the day – as well as in two articles on the BBC Lillian Burns, Vice Chair of CPRE North West, has written a website. The report was subsequently covered in The Telegraph discussion paper giving an insight into the impact of devolution (including a leader column), local and trade press. An interview on CPRE’s work. Assessing the government’s fast moving and with Graeme Willis was featured on the Politics Home website. far reaching devolution of powers agenda in England, the paper Here in Dorset the report was covered in the Dorset Echo. queries whether the end result is likely to be a neatly assembled jigsaw made up of empowered communities forging their own Making the Link future or a scene that communities struggle to understand Integrating land use and transport planning through Public and can’t influence. It is hoped this paper will stimulate Transport Oriented Development thinking and discussion within Town and Parish Councils as The sixth paper in CPRE Housing Foresight series explores well as within CPRE. The complete paper ‘‘Devolution: A CPRE how effective coordination between transport and development discussion paper’ can be found on http://www.cpre.org.uk/ can improve access to public transport, reduce pollution and news/item/4330-devolution-discussion-paper. encourage walking and cycling. The paper proposes ideas for identifying suitable sites, incentivising development and engaging local communities in the process.

Rambling in the countryside

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 23 FLOODING Boundary map of the South West and Wessex Wessex Regional Regional Flood and Coastal Committees (RFCC) Flood and Coastal Committee July meeting Every three months the Wessex Regional Flood and Coastal Committee meets to Wessex RFCC review progress and to discuss key topics of interest in the management of flood risk and flood management. The South West RFCC Committee was established by the Environment Agency (EA) under the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 and brings together members appointed by Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFAs) and independent members with

relevant experience for three © Crown copyright and database right 2014. Ordnance Survey Licence number 100024198. © Environment Agency purposes: South West and Wessex Regional Flood and Coastal Committee map • to ensure there are coherent plans for identifying, • The EA is updating its five year Flood Incident Management communicating and managing flood and coastal erosion Plan for the period 2015 to 2020. The main areas of focus risks across catchments and shorelines are on: • to encourage efficient, targeted and risk-based investment in flood and coastal erosion risk management that  Forecasting – The EA is strengthening its flood represents value for money and benefits local communities forecasting capabilities in order to increase winter • to provide a link between the Environment Agency, LLFAs, readiness and preparedness for major incidents by other risk management authorities, and other relevant enabling responders and partners to “think big, act bodies to build understanding of flood and coastal erosion early”. risks in its area  Flood Warning – The EA will deliver and embed by late 2016 a new Flood Warning system to replace its The meetings are open to anyone who wishes to attend current flood warning system, Floodline Warnings them as an observer. As Topic Leader for Flooding for Dorset Direct. The key changes expected include the ability CPRE, I attend these meetings regularly. Detailed reports are to issue ‘grouped’ flood warnings, allowing the EA to prepared for each meeting and these form a very valuable provide a more targeted service; automation achieved source of information on flooding in the Wessex region. I by linking the telemetry system to the warning service also have the opportunity to mingle with members of the which will speed up warnings in rapid response areas committee and to discuss topics of common interest where and big improvements to the way the EA warns people these arise. on the move. Those at risk now have to opt out of receiving flood warnings rather than having to opt in. I attended the last meeting which was held on the 18th July 2106 and for anyone that is interested, a copy of the papers  Flood Response – Major Incident Plans for flooding prepared for that meeting can be accessed at https://www.gov. in the Thames and Trent catchments and around uk/government/groups/wessex-regional-flood-and-coastal- the coast will be produced. Flood fighting assets e.g. committee and scrolling down to the “papers” section. pumps, temporary flood defences, incident command vehicles, drones will be increased and logistics Some of the key points which were noted from the meeting capabilities improved. are as follows: • The EA is undertaking a number of hydrological and • Dr Thérèse Coffey MP is now Parliamentary Under- hydraulic (computer) modelling studies (Bridport [River Secretary for the Environment and Rural Life Opportunities Brit and tributaries], Preston Brook & River Jordan, Stour and so is now “Minister for Flooding”. [lower], Wey [catchment], Winkton Hatches, [Yeovil] Yeo • The budget for maintenance of flood management assets [head of rivers to upstream of A303]). These projects for 2016/17 has been increased from £5.46 million to £7.02 will aid the EA’s understanding of flood risk; improve its million and so “Wessex” will be able to undertake more flood warning areas and asset maintenance decisions; work to maintain its assets. The allocation for “Wessex plus assisting the EA with advising about land-use and South” which includes Dorset is now £1.91 million. development planning.

24 DORSET CampaignCampaign toto ProtectProtect RuralRural EnglandEngland –– ProtectingProtecting DorsetDorset Flood Risk Management Plans Following publication of Flood Risk Management Plans by the EU publication deadline of 22nd March 2016, the EA has been in discussions with Defra to agree the subsequent annual reporting procedure. The EA hopes to be able to inform its Lead Local Flood Authority partners of the agreed procedure later this year. It is hoped that it may be linked to other reporting mechanisms to minimise resource demand. The EA is also establishing the requirements for the refresh, due in 2017, of the Preliminary Flood Risk Assessment (PFRA) that also stems from the Flood Risk Regulations. Guidance on this is also expected later this year. Flood Information Service available from https://flood-warning- information.service.gov.uk/ FLOOD CONSULTATIONS in the area. This included the successful objection to CJ Lytchett Minster Fry’s application for permission to build 340 houses in the Further discussions with Purbeck District Council (PDC) have Nottington Lane area. taken place to review a number of coastal issues. The focus has been around the tidal influence from Lytchett Bay to Community Flood Schemes the drainage systems for the settlement of Lytchett Minster. I met with the EA to discuss the siting of an early warning The EA is in receipt of a draft report exploring possible device for flooding in Stourpaine. Quotations have now been improvements to reduce highway and surface water impacts received by the EA and the aim is to install the device within where they combine with high tides. A team including the next two months and hopefully before the flood risk Wessex Water, Dorset LLFA and PDC has met regularly to increases in the winter months. Output from the device will share information on this area. be linked to other monitors for groundwater and river water levels to enable more accurate forecasting of the flood risk to Upwey, Nottington Lane Applications be undertaken. An application for 30 houses in Nottington was withdrawn at the last minute. However, as a result of a meeting of the CPRE West Dorset Group we were able to re-establish contact with the residents who are battling against developments Derek GardinerTopic Leader

NFU OPEN DAY

“The Value of Farming to Dorset” held on September 9th

Rupert Hardy, from Dorset CPRE, attended a well organised NFU Open Day at the farm of George Hosford, Travellers Rest, near Blandford. Lots of local politicians, including Simon Hoare, MP for North Dorset, as well as representatives of many Dorset organisations were there to hear the views of the NFU. They were speaking about the future of farming in Dorset in the aftermath of the Brexit referendum. There was also a tour of the farm. George Hosford farms 2000 acres rented from the Rothermere estate with his brother Dougal. It is mostly arable but there are sheep and cattle on permanent grassland. One interesting crop are poppies for the pharmaceutical market. They take environmental responsibility very seriously trying to protect important wildlife habitats, by preserving hedges, and local flora by fencing off downland rich in orchids, cowslips and other plants. In 2013 the farm won the Barn Owl Trophy awarded by the local branch of the Framing and Wildlife Group for their conservation efforts. The brothers welcome parties of school children throughout the year. George Hosford

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 25 OBITUARIES

David King 1928 – 2016 Admiral Sir William O’Brien Earlier this year one of our most distinguished North Dorset member, Admiral Sir William O’Brien, died, aged 99. In the war he helped undertake a number of Churchill’s most daring enterprises. These included sowing mines in the mouths of the Rhine and other rivers in occupied northern Europe and a raid on the port of Boulogne. He served in the Artic convoys, took part in the Normandy landings and when he retired from the Navy he was C in C, Western Fleet. He lived near Shaftesbury.

Michael Purcell I am reminded that I have never paid tribute to Michael Purcell, active CPRE supporter and friend, who died two years ago. Michael had been a district commissioner in Uganda, was Deputy High Commissioner in Malta, undertaking the delicate negotiations over the closure of the dockyard, strongly opposed by a very anti-British Maltese government and later serving as It is with much regret that we announce the recent death of an ambassador in Africa. He was a long serving member of the David King. We extend our deepest sympathy to his wife, Jean, North Dorset CPRE and Shaftesbury Civic Society committees to his son, Nick, to his daughter, Sue, and to all members of and also lived near Shaftesbury. his family. He was a long-standing member of the Branch Executive Committee, BEC, from 1989 until 2002 when he had to resign Stephen Howard due to ill health. He was Waste Adviser to Dorset CPRE and on the Wytch Farm Oilfield Consultative Committee until I took Margery Patricia Kenyon over both jobs from him in 2002. David was Chairman of the Alan Kenyon’s wife Margery sadly died on 1st April, aged 90. Purbeck and Poole Group Committee from its foundation in Alan, our Life Vice President, and Margery married in 1950 and 1998 until 2002 and was able to continue as an active member brought up a family of three girls. Long serving members of of that Committee until a couple of years ago and since then CPRE they moved to Dorchester in 1968 and Margery taught he has still kept us all on our toes with a regular series of emails maths at Weymouth Grammar. She was so proud of her and telephone calls until just a few weeks ago. children, 9 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren who David was at Harwell and then worked for 32 years at the have all brought her great joy. Atomic Energy Research Establishment, AERE, at Winfrith Newburgh from 1958, shortly after it opened in 1957, until he retired in 1990. He was for many years the personal assistant to a series of Directors at Winfrith and was much involved in Bere Marsh Farm publicity and public relations and took a particular delight in The Countryside Restoration Trust (CRT) recently organising the visits of the Queen and other members of the announced that following a long and arduous process, Royal Family over the years. they have found an almost perfect farm in Dorset. David and his family have lived continuously in Corfe Castle It has been quite a search, as the farm will be since 1960. He was Chairman of the Purbeck Society which dedicated to the memory of CRT Founder-Trustee, is where I first met him more than twenty-five years ago. He Gordon Beningfield and therefore has to represent his was also Chairman of the Christmas Festivities Committee and passion for wildlife, the countryside and those that live played a very active part in putting up the well-known lights and work within it. every year. He was a Parish Councillor, he was with the village A key inspiration behind the founding of the CRT, hall committee and with the Belfry committee who installed Gordon was both a committed conservationist and a new peal of six bells in St Edward’s Church in 2000. He was an outstanding artist; known for his watercolours of involved in many other aspects of village life and will be sorely landscapes and butterflies. missed by all concerned. The location of the farm CRT hope to dedicate to Many long-standing members of the Branch will have fond Gordon’s memory, lies in the Blackmore Vale – the setting memories of David and the enthusiasm which he brought to of “Tess of the d’Urbervilles”; and just a few miles from everything he did. It was he who first invited me to join the Sturminster Newton, where Hardy wrote “The Return Purbeck and Poole Group and then to stand for election to the of the Native”. The CRT are now almost in a position to BEC. He always gave me a great deal of help and support. make Gordon’s dream of having a wildlife-friendly farm About sixty people from the village, and from Winfrith and in Dorset, a reality but need to raise additional funds. To elsewhere attended a service of thanksgiving for David’s life at learn more about their ‘Dorset Appeal’ please visit http:// St Edwards Church on 8 September. www.countrysiderestorationtrust.com. May he rest in peace.

Dr John Larkin 26 DORSET CampaignCampaign toto ProtectProtect RuralRural EnglandEngland –– ProtectingProtecting DorsetDorset DORSET CPRE MEMBERSHIP

DECEASED MEMBERS NEW MEMBERS

East Dorset, Bournemouth & Since Apil 2016 Outside Dorset: Christchurch: Mr Robert Boas Mrs Marion J Best East Dorset, Bournemouth & Mr Stephen Tapper Mr J Combes Christchurch: Ms Sarah Best We also welcome members who have Miss J L Watford moved from other branches or re-joined Mr Keith Jolen Barnes North Dorset: during the year. North Dorset: Mr & Mrs Druce Mrs H M Jackson Mrs & Mr Francis Mr David Jenkins Purbeck & Poole: LEAVE A LEGACY Mr William Burnett Poole & Purbeck: Mr Peter Anderson If you share our beliefs about protecting Mr David King our precious heritage of a beautiful The Sherborne and District countryside, please consider leaving a gift The Sherborne and District Society: to CPRE in your will. Society: Mr & Mrs Dewdney-Herbert Your legacy, no matter what the Mrs JE Cooper Mr & Mrs Harvey amount, will help us ensure that Professor J M Hinton Mr Douglas Rice developments are sensitive to the West Dorset: countryside, and that housing sprawl is West Dorset: kept in check. With your help, there will be Mrs Margery Patricia Kenyon Mrs Sarah Merchant a green, tranquil and beautiful England for Mr ARA Maclachlan Mr Chris Mason tomorrow’s children to enjoy. Mrs Hillary Sweet-Escott Mr & Mrs Andrews Mr Michael George The English countryside is an Mr Aaron Figg exceptional creation – immensely old, full Mrs Susan Hammerbeck of surprises and nearly always pleasing to Mrs Sandra Lovelock look at. For me, the countryside represents so much of what makes life worth living but how much of it will be left for future generations to enjoy? Bill Bryson NOT ALREADY A MEMBER? With the advice of a solicitor, writing a Joining is the single most effective way to stand up for the countryside. will or changing it in order to include a gift The more you can give, the more we can do to keep our countryside to CPRE is very simple. safe. As a member you’ll receive our regular Countryside Voice magazine, and enjoy discounted entry to almost 200 houses, gardens and other attractions around England. You will also receive The Dorset Review twice a year, be able to attend and vote at the Dorset Branch AGM, attend various social events throughout the year. Please visit our DIARY DATES website for details on how to join or contact our office for a joining form. CPRE Membership also makes an ideal present. 18th November – The Sherborne and District Society dinner at Sherborne Golf Club, for 7.30pm.

19th November – Branch AGM, 10am at Cerne Abbas Village Hall. See enclosed invite.

2nd December – Countryside Forum Meeting.

Please visit Dorset CPRE website for 2017 meeting dates for the Countryside Forum and District Groups.

Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset Campaign to Protect Rural England – Protecting Dorset DORSET 27 CAMPAIGN TO PROTECT RURAL ENGLAND DORSET BRANCH Registered Charity No. 211974 PO Box 9018, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 9GY. Tel: 0333 577 0360 email: [email protected] website: www.dorset-cpre.org.uk BRANCH SECRETARY Mrs Linda Williams @DorsetCPRE

Executive Committee & Trustees 2016 Group Chairmen PRESIDENT West Dorset: Mr Edward Fox OBE Mr Richard H Nicholls 01308 422679 159 Victoria Grove, Bridport DT6 3AG VICE-PRESIDENT Rear Admiral Richard Heaslip, CB 01202 594982 North Dorset: Mr Stephen G Howard 01747 828249 2 Longfield Drive, West Parley, Ferndown BH22 8TY Summer Pool Cottage, Donhead St Andrew, Mr Stephen G Howard 01747 828249 Shaftesbury SP7 9LQ Summer Pool Cottage, Donhead St Andrew, Shaftesbury SP79LQ The Sherborne and District Society: LIFE VICE PRESIDENTS Mr Peter Neal 01935 814801 5 Abbeymead Court, Sherborne DT9 3AU Mr Alan H Kenyon 01305 250051 2 Augustan Close, Dorchester DT1 2QU Purbeck & Poole: Mr Gerald Rigler 01202 601109 Capt Dickie Bird, LVO, RN 01935 850576 9 Sundew Road, Broadstone, Dorset, BH18 9NX Manor Farm House, Trent, Sherborne DT9 4SW East Dorset, Bournemouth and Christchurch: CHAIR OF TRUSTEES Contact Dorset CPRE Branch Mr Richard H Nicholls 01308 422679 159 Victoria Grove, Bridport DT6 3AG Countryside Forum HONORARY TREASURER CHAIR OF COUNTRYSIDE FORUM Mr Richard H Norman 01258 472887 John Holiday 01258 817796 Mngani, 15 Hillcrest Close, Glue Hill, Hill Farm, Woolland, Blandford Forum, DT11 0ER Sturminster Newton DT10 2DL Advisers to the Forum ELECTED MEMBERS Mr Richard H Nicholls 01308 422679 Trees for Dorset 159 Victoria Grove, Bridport DT6 3AG Mrs Rachel M Palmer 01929 462423 Clouds, 14 Cologne Road, Bovington, Rear Admiral Richard Heaslip, CB 01202 594982 Wareham BH20 6NP 2 Longfield Drive, West Parley, Dorset Wildlife Trust: Ferndown BH22 8TY Mrs Alison C Kaye 01305 260401 Dr John A Larkin 01929 555366 High Ridge House, Charminster, Lorien, Grange Road, Wareham BH20 5AL Dorchester DT2 9QZ Environment Agency

Mr Peter Neal 01935 814801 Guy Parker 01258 483460 5 Abbeymead Court, Sherborne DT9 3AU Flood Resilience Advisor (Wessex) Mrs Sandra Brown 01929 551071 Rivers House, Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road, Blandford Forum DT11 8ST Badgers Keep, Barnhill Road, Ridge, Email: [email protected] Wareham, Dorset, BH20 5BG CPRE SOUTH WEST Regional Chairman: Janette Ward c/o 8 Rowdens Road, Wells, Somerset, BA5 1TU

'NFU Mutual is proud to support CPRE Dorset'

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in some of the articles do not, necessarily, represent the views of CPRE Dorset. Many of the articles have been written from a personal viewpoint. EDITOR/DESIGNER: Linda Williams/Shaun Hodge PRINTED BY: Remous Ltd, Milborne Port, Dorset DT9 5EP