PLANS for a surf lagoon have sparked fears it would be a “complete eyesore” and increase traffic in the area.

W H White want to redevelop land southeast of A31 Ringwood Road, either side of Brocks Pine in St Leonards and make improvement to Avon Heath Country Park.

The plans

An outline planning application has been submitted to Dorset Council seeking permission for the development of a surf lagoon, outdoor climbing wall, visitor reception, cafe and administration building with an ancillary glamping pod site and its service buildings.

The proposals also include the erection of buildings in the country park extension incorporating a cafe, toilets, and car park kiosk, which would replace demolished country park buildings, as well as play facilities and the creation of a skate park, cycle park and wild play structures.

A full planning application has also been submitted for change of use of agricultural land to Suitable Alternative Natural Green space (SANG), change of use of agricultural land to a country park which would be an extension to the existing Avon Heath Country Park as well as the demolition of an existing cafe and visitor centre.

Concerns raised

A number of comments have been submitted by members of the public on the planning application on Dorset Council’s website. One resident said: “I feel this complete eyesore [which] is not needed in this area will spoil [the] scenery and attract too many visitors to the area that the roads cannot cope with already.”

Another objector added: “Getting out of Woolsbridge Road is already a real problem regardless of the time of day, without further activity on this roundabout.

“Any further increase in traffic on the A31would mean catastrophic grid locks and drivers taking unnecessary risks attempting to join the A31 from the minor roads approaching the Woolsbridge and Ashley Heath roundabouts. There are problems enough as it is at present.”

Another member of the public said: “This scheme will destroy the rural character of the area, its tranquillity, beauty and diversity of its landscape.”

Other concerns raised were about the impact on the environment and wildlife as well as Avon Heath and the surrounding countryside; increases in pollution; noise and light pollution; the close proximity to a Site of Special Scientific Interest; and that the design and appearance will not be in keeping with the area.

Support for project

However, comments in support of the plans said it would be a “bonus” for youngsters in the area and would promote a healthy lifestyle. Another described it as an “absolutely brilliant idea”.

What the applicants say

A spokesperson on behalf of the applicants said the proposals were an “exciting and unique opportunity for significant expansion of Avon Heath Country Park and an inland surf lagoon at land southeast of A31 Ringwood Road”, either side of Brocks Pine.

W H White control the land on either side of Brocks Pine and Dorset Council control Avon Heath Country Park. Key to the vision, the spokesperson said, was to “work collaboratively to create a much-improved country park” as well as helping to “preserve and protect” the heaths.

According to their statement, following a public consultation in September 2021, the majority of respondents expressed support for the proposals which are also supported by Natural England, Surf England and the Dorset LEP.

The statement added that it was a unique opportunity to cement Dorset’s position as a surf destination and would also be a boost for the tourism and hospitality industry across Dorset. 

A detailed traffic assessment has been submitted, which according to the spokesperson, concludes the forecast traffic generation “will not have a material impact on the existing local road network, neither will existing highway safety conditions in the local area be affected”.

The proposed scheme “would not create or contribute to severe congestion” and is therefore in accordance with national planning policy.

“The overall vision for Brocks Pine would therefore reduce recreational pressures upon these protected and internationally recognised habitats and allowing them to thrive and delivering significant environmental and biodiversity benefits,” the statement added.

The application is available to view and comment on by visiting Dorset Council's website (planning application reference P/OUT/2021/04412).

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