Decision details

Reason for Decision

To conserve the public amenity of specific parts of the Dorchester Conservation Area, by preventing loss of further features which contribute to the character of the conservation area.

Alternative Options considered and Rejected

1. Not to make an Article 4 Direction - this is likely to lead to further loss of walls, gates and other means of enclosure which contribute to the character of the conservation area.

2. Not to make an immediate Article 4 Direction.  This would result in raising the profile of the issue, and there would be a much longer time during which walls, gates and boundary features could be removed through permitted development rights.

To approve the making of an Article 4 Direction for specific parts of the Dorchester Conservation Area as drafted in the original report.