North Blandford

Faced with continued development pressure, the Town Council embarked on a Neighbourhood Plan. One of the aspirations of the community was for a new primary school. Early conversations with the Town Council resulted in the Land north of the town being identified as the preferred option for growth.

A masterplan was prepared with the Town Council alongside wider community engagement and the land identified in the draft Neighbourhood Plan for a mixed use development, including 750 homes. Particular consideration was needed to protect the AONB which covered part of the site.

Due to the delays in the Local Plan and fears of planning by appeal undermining the community aspirations, the Neighbourhood Plan proceeded but failed at Examination. Following Central Government intervention, the Examination was reopened and subsequently made following overwhelming support at Referendum.

A planning application was prepared with the community, including carefully crafted engagement during the Covid-19 pandemic. The hybrid planning application was submitted to demonstrate the design quality and deliver ability of the scheme, which was recommended for approval by Dorset Council, with significant local support. However, due to the elections, the application was called-in by the Secretary of State for his determination. Following the new Government, we remarkably managed to “de-recover” the application, meaning the Council could approve the scheme. Development is expected to commence in 2025, delivering the community aspirations.

Client: Wyatt Homes
Design: New Masterplanning
LPA: Dorset Council