Page 12 - Purbeck Society Spring Newsletter 2022 (xxx

4 properties included in the survey which identified properties of
significance have either been demolished or are due for demolition or
redevelopment since the survey was carried out. The society committee
discuss these issues regularly at meetings and have written letters of
objection to planning department regarding several properties. The
Swanage area has 2 councillors at county council level (now referred to
as Dorset Rural Council after the amalgamation of 4 district councils
over 2 years ago when Purbeck District council amalgamated with East,
North and West District councils. Planning decisions for our area are
now made by councilors based well outside our area and it is known that
the 2 councillors who are responsible for this area (Gary Suttle and Bill
Trite) are becoming increasingly frustrated by their lack of control (as
part of a board of 12 councillors covering a much larger area) regarding
planning issues in their area. This has been highlighted by recent
matters concerning affordable housing levels at the site adjacent to
Purbeck House Hotel, and proposals for the Harrow house site
(demolition and over development of flats and townhouses). Threats to
land adjacent to the allotments at Prospect Crescent and excessive
housing levels from government, without the associated necessary
infrastructure, such as health facilities and transport has led to much
discussion by society committee as to what the future role of the society
should be and how proactive it can be regarding such matters.

The local plan for Swanage has been delayed and consequently there is
still a chance to include controls regarding such issues as housing levels
and infrastructure requirements before the plan is implemented.

The society committee has written to the council voicing fears and
concerns regarding public access to information and certain planning
applications. Along with the lack of affordable housing, efforts by
developers to reduce this element in proposed developments and the
correct payment and use of monies developers are obliged to pay
towards community projects/infrastructure when a development goes
ahead.