RESIDENTS have gathered to voice their concerns over plans for a surf lagoon in Dorset.
The ‘Surf Reef Opposition Group’ has met to discuss the scheme earmarked for land south-east of the A31 as they await an appeal decision.
Members are fighting a proposal for a man-made surf lagoon and an extension to Avon Heath Country Park incorporating a new visitor centre, café, and day nursery.
The group’s aim is to protect green belt land from development, although they have noted other issues with the scheme including its potential impact on traffic in the area.
Member Rosie Bascombe said: “Our group is very keen to save the green belt. Our whole ethos is to not build on the fields - no matter what the reason.
“Once you change the use of the green belt from agricultural to leisure, then it just opens up the floodgates for things to happen in the future.
“It’s not the right place for a surf lagoon. It’s very valuable green belt land and it's being eaten away at left right and centre, so we’re just trying to protect it.”
Discussing potential traffic linked to the lagoon, Rosie added: “The A31 at the roundabout is absolutely terrible and it would increase the traffic. That’s a concern to local residents.”
The ‘Surf Reef Opposition Group’ met at Avon Heath Country Park on Friday to discuss the proposal.
Rosie said around 30 people turned up, although no developers were present.
She added that to date, the group has collected 900 signatures from residents who do not wish to lose the land to the surf lagoon.
She told the Daily Echo: “We haven’t met with the developers at all, they’ve never made themselves available and they haven’t communicated with the local community since 2021 when they first held a public meeting.”
The planning application for the surf lagoon site was submitted by W. H. White in November 2021 following a public engagement event.
The developer is currently appealing the non-determination of the application.
Non-determination is when the local planning authority fails to determine the application within the statutory period.
An appeal decision is expected later this month.
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