Wool is a large village located within the Purbeck area of Dorset. Identified by Dorset Council as a strategic location for significant housing development, Wool has experienced considerable pressure for growth. While recognising the need for housing, the local community has expressed strong concerns regarding the potential impact that significant development could have on the village’s unique character and existing infrastructure.
In response, the Wool community embarked on creating a Neighbourhood Plan designed to positively manage growth and ensure that necessary infrastructure keeps pace with new development. Following an extensive community engagement process, the Wool Neighbourhood Plan was successfully examined and found to meet all necessary conditions and legal requirements, pending minor modifications.
The Neighbourhood Plan addresses the following key priorities:
Community Infrastructure
The plan identifies essential community infrastructure required to support anticipated growth. This includes the enhancement of community facilities such as community halls, recreation spaces, and improvements to local amenities.
Environmental Improvements
The Neighbourhood Plan proposes significant environmental improvements. These include upgrading key walking and cycling routes, enhancing connectivity within the village, and improving access to natural spaces, thus promoting sustainable and healthy lifestyles.
Social Infrastructure
To meet the future needs of residents, the plan explicitly includes provisions for additional social infrastructure such as allotments and cemetery space. These are identified as vital amenities necessary to support the community’s growth and well-being.
The Wool Neighbourhood Plan is now progressing towards a community referendum, allowing residents to vote on its adoption. The plan demonstrates a proactive, balanced, and strategic approach, ensuring that new development contributes positively to Wool’s community, environment, and overall quality of life.
Further details are available on Dorset Council’s Wool Neighbourhood Plan page.