Consultation on land at Horton Heath

The land near to Horton Heath, Three Legged Cross, is being considered as a site for the future quarrying of sand at Redman’s Hill.

The project could see up to 3.5 million tonnes of sand being quarried over a 12-17 year period.

Dorset County Council, along with Bournemouth and Poole councils, is in the process of preparing a mineral sites plan to identify sites across the county to meet the need for various minerals.

The document was considered by a planning inspector at public hearing sessions in September and October. It did not initially include land at Horton Heath as an allocation for future development. However, following discussion at a recent public hearing by the inspector, landowner, the council and others, the site is now being considered as a possible additional option.

Cllr Daryl Turner, cabinet member for the Natural and Built Environment said, “We want to encourage people to give their views over the coming weeks so that they are involved in plans to build a sustainable economy for the future whilst protecting Dorset’s unique environment.”

Following the current consultation, comments will be considered to assess whether the site at Horton Heath should be included in the mineral sites plan.

There will be a final stage of consultation on the plan in the spring. Any sites allocated in the plan will then need to secure planning permission to be developed.

Residents can find out more online or by calling 01305 224675.

Copies of the consultation document, including details of the site, can also be viewed at Verwood and West Moors libraries as well as County Hall, Dorchester.

Comments must be received by 28 January 2019.