Issue details

Reason for the Decision

A report was considered by Dorset Council Cabinet on 1 November 2022.

The report sought a decision for grant funding of £895,034 to Dorset Wildlife Trust of heathland mitigation funds collected via the Community Infrastructure Levy to allow delivery of the SANG.

The project formed part of the Heathland Interim Mitigation Strategy for the Purbeck Local Plan.

It is estimated that the proposed SANG would mitigate the impacts from approximately 430 new homes within Purbeck, some of which have already been built or have planning permission.

The project had been considered and approved by the Heathland Mitigation Steering Group which includes representatives from Natural England.

Planning permission has been obtained to enable the land to be managed as a SANG.

I have the following delegated authority, as set out in the Cabinet Report Item and minutes of 1 November 2022, minute 81:

“Decision

(a) That authority be delegated to the Portfolio Holder for Planning to enter into a contract funding agreement for DWT to deliver the Wild Woodbury SANG on terms to be recommended by the Executive Director of Place.”

In exercise of my delegated authority, and in consultation with the Executive Director of Place I approve the recommendation to enter into the funding agreement.

Alternative Options considered and rejected

N/A

Consultees

Executive Director for Place

Budget Implications

As set out in the Cabinet report

Legal Implications

Legal advice has been sought on the form of funding agreement.

Any Conflict of Interest?

None

Reference Documents

Cabinet Report and minutes of 1 November 2022, minute 81.

The attached grant funding agreement