Council eyes developer cash for green spaces

Three large green spaces are set to be revitalised for nature

A council plans to use developer funding to enhance three Dorset green spaces for wildlife and community use.

The sites - totalling 59 hectares - at Erlin Farm, Millhams Mead and Solent Meads have been earmarked for better public access and improved wildlife habitats by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council.

The authority wants to turn the areas into biodiversity net gain (BNG) units that can be bought by developers who need to offset lost habitats when they build.

It is hoped the move will stop local house builders buying BNG units in other parts of the country.

BCP Council does not currently have a local supply of BNG units and has estimated about £180,000 has gone elsewhere since February 2024.

The proposals will be discussed at December's cabinet meeting.

Councillor Andy Hadley, portfolio holder for climate response, environment and energy, said: "These proposals will ensure more people have access to the stunning natural surroundings and all the benefits of a high-quality, inclusive green space.

"We have incredible green spaces across Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole – all playing a vital role in the health and wellbeing of our residents – and we continue to invest in keeping them at the heart of our communities for generations to come.

"As we move forward with these proposals, we'll be engaging with residents directly to create a new vision for the future of these three sites."

The plans come after Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole were declared the country's first ever Nature Towns.