Electrical works on the Old Roman Road

A number of people have asked for information about electrical works being carried out on the Old Roman Road next to the field on the West side about 200 yards beyond the end of the metalled surface.

SSE have been connecting from a high voltage cable that runs under the track to a transformer cabinet inside the field. The installation of the cabinet and its power supply is apparently  a “permitted development” – that is, one not requiring planning permission. See a letter from Dorset Council confirming this.

There has been no planning application by the field owners for any activity or building in the field. It is not known what the intended use of the electrical supply is. Planning permission would be needed to park caravans or motor homes other than in very small numbers for short periods of time, not exceeding 28 days in total in a 365 day period. Given that the field is inside the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the site is clearly visible from a considerable distance it seems unlikely that permission would be granted for caravans or any other non agricultural use.