DORSET Council have responded to criticism from a newly-formed county-wide campsite group which claims many may not be able to open this year because of the way the authority is interpreting the rules and regulations.

The complaints come mainly from sites which are close to area of natural importance or where they are adjacent to watercourses which run into the waters of Poole Harbour, one of the most protected areas in the country where nutrients and phosphates are damaging wildlife – although most of this 'pollution' is caused by agricultural activities.

The Dorset Camping group, newly formed, claims Dorset Council is mis-interpreting the guidelines from Natural England, resulting in refusals for some long-established campsites.

Dorset Council says it is following procedures to protect the county's natural environment, guided by Natural England.

A Dorset Council spokesperson said: "When development is proposed, we need to assess whether there is likely to be a significant effect on a designated habitats site. As part of the assessment process, we are required to consult with Natural England to seek their advice on the potential impact of the proposal. The response we receive from Natural England informs our decision about the likely significant effect.

"When it is deemed there is likely to be a significant effect arising from the proposed development, Dorset Council needs to address this through the inclusion of mitigation measures.

"We must be satisfied that development proposals do not lead to adverse impacts upon the integrity of designated habitats sites through the Habitats Regulations Assessment/Appropriate Assessment process."