Dorset Council Consultations.
DC published no less than three major consultations in the last couple of months, one on the Dorset Local Plan options; one on Dorset Local Transport and one on Dorset National Landscapes (formerly AONB). Summaries of DCAN’s submission on these first two (AI generated) can be read below:
Dorset CAN’s Dorset Local Transport Plan Response - Key Points
● Support for Vision: DCAN endorses Dorset Council’s plan for a cleaner, safer, more inclusive transport system with real investment in sustainable, people-centred travel.
● Cutting Emissions & Improving Health: Calls for rapid decarbonisation, active travel, and public transport improvements to reduce pollution and boost wellbeing.
● Sustainable Planning: Urges all new developments to prioritise walking, cycling, public transport, and green infrastructure from the outset.
● Better Public Transport: Seeks restored and integrated bus and train services, rural connectivity (“Every Village, Every Hour”), and affordable through-ticketing.
● Safety & Collaboration: Advocates a “Vision Zero” target for road deaths by 2050 and cross-departmental, community-based working to deliver a low-carbon transport future.
Please click here to read Dorset CAN’s full response.
Dorset CAN’s Dorset Local Plan Response - Key Points
Key Points
● We support Dorset’s vision but feel it lacks ambition on climate and environment.
● Housing targets are unrealistic, damaging to nature, and not focused on local needs.
Key Priorities
● Deliver truly affordable, social, and community-led housing..
● Brownfield-first development — protect greenfield and green belt.
Environment & Climate
● Protect at least 30% of land and sea for biodiversity by 2030.
● Stronger action on climate, flooding, and nature recovery.
● Support renewable energy (onshore/offshore wind, rooftop solar, community energy).
Infrastructure & Economy
● Infrastructure must come before housing — roads, schools, healthcare, utilities.
● Support Clean Energy Supercluster and rail-linked sustainable growth, not more road building.
● Use local masterplanning to guide town centre renewal and employment growth.
Regional Focus
● Oppose green belt loss and large developments near sensitive heathlands or AONBs.
● Support small-scale, rail-accessible, and low-carbon developments in suitable areas.