Anger at new housing proposal in 'already swamped' Wimborne

Plans have been lodged to build up to 55 homes on land off Birchdale Road in Leigh, Wimborne, comprising eight bungalows and up to three self build plots. 

Applicant Nightingale Land said the development would come with an “extensive and robust network of multifunctional green infrastructure” of approximately 70 per cent. 

But residents seem unimpressed with the application, with dozens of objection letters filed to Dorset Council.

Land off Birchdale Road (Image: Google)

Colehill resident Susan Davies believes new homes in the area would create a further “burden” on the NHS, schools and existing residents. 

She said: “It's about time the planners took notice of public opinion and considered the quality of life of existing residents and the population increase on this market town which is becoming just a big urban sprawl.”  

Wimborne resident Nick Maidman said: “We need to preserve the green belt areas between Wimborne and Colehill. 

“Plus Wimborne has built thousands of new houses recently with no sign of infrastructure additions to cope with the extra capacity.” 

Rhiannon Pimlett said Wimborne is “losing its charm” because of housing developments. 

Sue Bullen added: “Please stop destroying what little green belt still exists in Wimborne, a town already swamped with new housing.  

“This objectionable proposal should be refused. This site is a small green oasis in the area, home to wildlife.” 

Meanwhile Rory Hardyman said: “The congestion in Wimborne is at its highest level ever and additional strain on these and other services is causing major issues.” 

A statement from the developers said: “Nightingale Land is committed to ensuring healthy and sustainable design principles are brought to the fore, with multifunctional blue and green infrastructure at the heart of the scheme, to form a sensitive, green, well-connected settlement edge.” 

Half of the homes built would be affordable, if Dorset Council will approve the scheme which was submitted earlier this month. 

Nightingale Land added: “The development will provide a choice of new homes (both tenure and price) for modern living and will encourage a wide demographic, from starter homes for first time buyers, through to retirement homes.  

“There will also be a proportion of affordable homes with the affordable housing mix having regard to national and local guidance.  

“The final housing mix will be determined at the detailed stage, but it is expected to include a broad range of house types to include terrace, semi-detached and detached properties.”