Proposed caravans for Ukraine refugees near Blandford Forum

Town councillors say they fear the proposed development, at Deer Park Farm, adjoining the sports field at The Blandford School, could ultimately lead to permanent housing on the site - which has been rejected in the past.

A dozen objections have also been lodged, some claiming the use of the site would ruin the character of the area with anyone living there at risk of being flooded.

The application comes from the Bryanston Estate and the Rothermere Foundation.

An agent acting for them said in a statement: “It is the intention of the applicants to respond to this crisis through providing aid and safe housing to some of those impacted by the conflict. As such, this proposal seeks to station caravans temporarily on land within the control of The Bryanston Estate at Deer Park Farm.

"Additionally, it is hoped that by providing accommodation on the edge of an existing thriving, sustainable settlement, that the refugees can be welcomed into the community and take advantage of the existing facilities, employment opportunities and amenities already present within the town.”

The proposals include the conversion of a redundant farm building into an amenity block and community area with access to the town via Deer Park Lane, Whitecliff Mill Lane and Milldown Street.

Dorset Council leader Spencer Flower, responding to a question, told Thursday’s meeting that he would not support the idea of having designated housing for any particular group of people, with fellow Cabinet members Cllr Laura Beddow saying she was not aware any plans to create accommodation for refugees, but said the council would continue to offer a comprehensive package of support for all refugees.

Cllr Byron Quayle had asked if it was the council’s policy to support large developments being created to house people from the Ukraine.

“It was my understanding that we wanted these people to come into our communities and be part of our communities and not ushered off into single developments as is being proposed in Blandford,” he said.

Purbeck councillor Beryl Ezzard said the idea of permanent housing for refugees was not a good idea because all of those she had spoken to had told her they were determined to return to the home country once the war is over.

Council leader Spencer Flower said there were now 559 refugees in the county, including 200 children, being hosted by 148 sponsors.

The planning application, ref 2022/03963, is open for public comment until August 12.