Urgent Plans Unveiled for 1,200 Homes in Dorset’s Canford Village

UPDATE: Plans for a massive new village, called Canford Garden Village, have just been unveiled near Wimborne, Dorset, promising to deliver 1,200 homes to help tackle the UK’s escalating housing crisis. This ambitious project aims to create a vibrant community on a 230-hectare site, which was previously a quarry and golf course.

The announcement comes as authorities strive to address the urgent need for housing in the region. The proposal includes a significant commitment to affordable living, with reports indicating that at least 40% of the homes will be designated as affordable housing, targeting first-time buyers and those in need of social rental options.

This comprehensive plan not only focuses on housing but also on building a sustainable community. Alongside residential units, developers promise essential infrastructure, including a community hub, flexible workspaces, and healthcare facilities. Furthermore, the project will utilize 90 hectares for public green spaces, fostering biodiversity and community well-being.

The plans were submitted to the Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole Council (BCP) and received unanimous approval in March 2021. However, not without controversy, as local concerns about traffic congestion and the impact on existing schools have emerged. Richard Burton, a ward councillor for Bearwood and Merley, expressed the worries of residents, stating, “We’ve had a lot of development in Bearwood… just choosing the easiest places to build isn’t the way forward and it’s not sustainable.”

In response to these concerns, developers W.H. White emphasized their commitment to eco-friendly construction methods, including solar energy and ground-source heating. A spokesperson stated, “The current shortfall in housing supply has prompted renewed interest in strategic and deliverable opportunities such as at Canford Village.”

Local stakeholders, including the Dorset Chamber and Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, have voiced support for the potential economic benefits and job creation that this development could bring. However, the ongoing dialogue between local authorities and residents suggests that further discussions will be necessary to address community concerns.

As the plans move forward, the council has indicated that they will initiate a new call for potential development sites in the conurbation. Cllr Millie Earl, leader of BCP Council, highlighted the need to balance development with environmental preservation, stating, “It is important that we protect the beautiful area that we live in.”

With the housing crisis worsening across the UK, the unveiling of the Canford Garden Village proposal is a significant step in addressing these urgent needs. The development promises to reshape the landscape of Wimborne, and the coming months will be crucial in understanding its full impact on the community. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.