PLANS to replace derelict barns at a Higher Bockhampton business park with a new commercial unit has been refused by Dorset Council.

Hampton Farm Business Park, off Bockhampton Lane, wanted to use the site, recently cleared of dilapidated barns, for a new 565 square metre commercial unit. The site is in the south west corner of the business park, to the west of the entrance to Greenwood Grange and the Hardy visitor centre.

Dorset Council officers say the site is outside of the development boundary and 500metres from ancient woodland in a sparsely populated area.

Stinsford Parish Council had supported the application with four letters received by Dorset Council on the scheme – one which objected, stating concerns over noise/light pollution and increased traffic. Three letters offered support saying the building would be better than the barns which were on the site and would encourage smaller business start-ups.

In a report recommending refusal a planning officer said there was no proven need for the unit which was considered more urban in nature than other units on the site: “Its mass, bulk and finish will not reflect the surroundings or neighbouring buildings and given that it’s going to be more visual given the topopgraphy of surrounding land towards this corner of the business park, it will harm the modest rural appearance of the site and setting.”