DEVELOPERS have said they are “thrilled” to have won the approval of the council to build five “much needed” homes. 

Poole-based Fortitudo will soon start work on five acres of land in Dogdean, between Furzehill and Colehill, on the outskirts of Wimborne. 

The firm will create five bespoke homes designed to “blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings while offering modern, luxury living”. 

Each home will be constructed to a high specification, boasting ultra-energy efficiency and unique designs, including a “charming” three-bedroom bungalow. 

(Image: Fortitudo/ARC Architect)

(Image: Fortitudo/ARC Architect)

They will also come with garages, parking and landscape planting. 

Simon Ible, Fortitudo’s head of planning, said: “This development exemplifies our commitment to high-quality design that harmonises with its surroundings.”  

Fortitudo has dubbed the homes a “retreat where the tranquillity of the countryside meets the convenience of contemporary living”. 

Sophie Hall, head of sales, added: “Wimborne is a fantastic place to live, and we’re proud to be establishing our presence in the town. 

“Following the redevelopment, we will increase the amount of green space on the site while delivering five much-needed new homes.  

“Stay tuned for updates, and make sure to follow Fortitudo on Instagram.” 

(Image: Fortitudo/ARC Architect)

(Image: Fortitudo/ARC Architect)

Dorset Council’s planning officer Claire Hicks gave Fortitudo the green light on August 8, adding several conditions including steps that must be taken to reduce the risk of flooding. 

She said: “Colehill Parish Council has raised concerns over drainage and also the septic tank which would need to be installed. Holt Parish Council objected as they were worried about the “septic tanks in this location due to flooding and drainage issues”.  

“Ward councillor Andy Todd is concerned of the impact of the proposed development on the drainage in the area. 

“The site is not in an area identified by the council’s strategic flood risk assessment as being at risk of groundwater flooding and is not within a fluvial flood zone, however, there are surface water issues on the road, therefore, to accord with policy ME6 it is necessary to ensure that the flood risk is not worsened.” 

A design and access statement for the development said the new homes will help contribute to the housing requirements of east Dorset, where policy states 8,490 new homes should be built in the area between 2013 and 2028 – or an average of 566 homes a year.