New Development Proposal: Crown Gate Site Consultation Open

Places for People has shared details of a proposed residential development at the Crown Gate site in Poundbury, representing one of the final parcels to be developed in the settlement. The proposal was presented to Dorchester Town Council's Planning Meeting on Monday December 1st and has received outline backing from town councillors, with residents being invited to provide input before the formal planning application is submitted.

The site, previously granted planning permission for a 76-apartment over-50s 'extra care' retirement complex dating back to 2017 (which was never built), would instead see 57 new dwellings comprising a mix of houses and apartments. More information is available from Places for People (see below).

Questions Raised at Town Council Meeting

At Monday's Dorchester Town Council Planning Meeting, residents and councillors raised several questions for the developer, represented by Senior Planning Manager Matthew Besant. These included queries about the distribution of affordable housing throughout the site, the housing mix, and the potential for community amenities such as café or bar facilities in the area, with some describing that section of the development as needing more community focal points compared to nearby Crown Square.

Questions were also raised about vehicle access, with the plan showing no direct vehicle access to Bradford Peverell Road. Mr Besant explained that while the initial Poundbury masterplan included road access at that point, it was dropped because the narrow road is considered unsuitable for increased traffic.

Councillors also requested consideration of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, while the proposal for lifts in three-storey homes was discussed but considered likely to be uneconomic.

These questions highlight the kinds of detailed planning considerations that some residents are exploring during the consultation period. Mr Besant indicated he would ask designers to review certain aspects, including layout concerns, in the context of Duchy principles. More details about the application and meeting are in the Dorset Echo story here. 

Community Input Welcomed

Places for People have said they welcome the opportunity to discuss the plans with residents. Matthew Besant is accepting questions and feedback before December 14th via email at matthew.besant@placesforpeople.co.uk or by post to Places for People South West, New Kings Court, Tollgate, Chandler's Ford, Hampshire SO53 3LG.

A further consultation meeting with residents is promised in the New Year when the plans are expected to be submitted to Dorset Council, which will then run its own formal public consultation process where residents can provide responses and comments on the application.