Opposition to Dorset homes plan for 'wildlife haven'

Campaigners say the historic parkland site, at Park Hill, Charlton Marshall, may well benefit those looking for a new home, but much better sites are available for housing, nearer to Blandford.

Said one of the objectors over the use of the site, Robert Rutherford: “The site was once a part of the old Clayesmore School estate and has been left untouched for many years, resulting in a haven for wildlife, including species such as the greater horseshoe bats, hedgehogs, stag beetles, Dormice, and slow worms.

"Because most adjacent land is either heavily farmed or residential gardens, the proposed development site represents one of the few remaining refuges for these animals… This parcel of land remains pristine and serves as a valuable natural resource for Charlton Marshall and its diverse wildlife populations.

"Furthermore, the potential construction goes beyond the village limits and brings additional concerns, including increased traffic and sewage infrastructure challenges.”

The planning application, currently being considered by Dorset Council, is for 44 homes for Aster Community with a total of 116 parking spaces across the site.

Twenty five of the homes will be market housing, 11 three-bed and 14 four-bed with 13 homes, mainly two and three-bed for social housing for rent and five classed as ‘affordable home ownership.”

The site at Charlton Marshall earmarked for new homes (Image: Google Maps)

One of the plots has been set aside for a self-build, or custom-build home.

Among the dozens of objections to the proposal are neighbours who complain that the extra traffic from the homes could add 80-100 extra vehicles each day on the narrow Park Hill, while others question the shortage of community facilities such as GPs, dentists and school places.

Home plans for countryside at Charlton Marshall (Image: Supplied)

Said one: “Building 44 new houses in a village that has no amenities is just out of question!

"Moreover there are many houses being built half a mile from the proposed development. Vast majority of these are not sold! Also there are dozens more houses up for sale at the moment in Charlton Marshall. Building more unaffordable homes does not resolve the issue!”

Among the letters to Dorset Council are some who support the proposal, saying that affordable homes are needed in the area and will be welcomed by many families.

The application, unless ‘called in’, is currently expected to be decided by a Dorset Council planning officer, rather than go before one of the area planning committees.