By Philip Evans

Dorchester Town Council members have given their support to the creation of a BMX trail at Castle Park.

At the last meeting of 2022, the Management Committee received a presentation on the proposal from Jonathan Halsall and others who spoke enthusiastically about the project.

Councillors were very supportive and suggested that it might be worth exploring whether any additional space could be available together with funding options for ongoing maintenance and parking.

The committee congratulated the group and offered ongoing support, resolving to assist with funding from the play area reserves.

The committee also considered a report from the outdoor services manager, Carl Dallison, which included a proposal from People Need Nature to create a trail around the northern part of the Great Field to enable visitors to understand the various zones to provide interpretation by way of oak posts with QR codes.

Members felt this was a good project which should be supported and requested that the town council's seal be included on the posts. 

Following a report on the council's tree stock, concern was expressed concern about three tree diseases currently in circulation which was likely to have an impact on the town's trees.

The report set out some general proposals for replanting at Sandringham Sports Centre and Frome Terrace Green and allotments which were welcomed.

The committee resolved that a budget for felling and replanting be considered during the 2023-24 budget setting process.

Low carbon options at Borough Gardens House

The committee considered a report from Mr Dallison on low carbon options available for the Borough Gardens House and nursery.

Air source heating had been identified as the most suitable option for both locations at a cost of £28,000 for the Borough Gardens House and £43,000 for the nursery.

Members felt it was important to continue its move towards low carbon heating options. It was noted that consideration would need to be given to any noise that might be created from converting to air source.

Councillors supported the initiative and that a further report be presented to a future meeting on energy savings, costing and payback of the projects. Funding will be considered during the 2023-24 budget setting process.

Members considered a report on the staff accommodation and facilities at Borough Gardens.

The committee felt the existing building was not suitable in its present form and that a small extension to the side of the building would create sufficient additional space. This would also mean the Borough Gardens House would once again become available for public use.

It was agreed to appoint architects to design the extension, the expected cost of building being £40,000.

Increase to allotment fees

Allotment rents and water fees are to be increased by £1 no matter the size of the plots. The policy of charging double the fees for non-Dorchester residents will continue.

The new charges will be as follows: full plot £40, half plot £24, quarter plot £16.50, water charge full plot £12.50, water charge half plot £10.50, administration fees for new tenants £50.

Grants approved for Dorchester groups

The committee considered a number of requests for financial assistance. Members were informed that the deputy mayor and previous deputy mayor had indicated that if applications in respect of Dorchester Community Church, Dorchester Family Support, STARS Dorset and the Dorset Carers Hub, they would fund them from their unspent mayoral allowance.

It was resolved that the following grants be approved: Brewery Square Residents Group - £100; Dorchester Community Church - £500; Dorchester Family Support - £500; Sexual Trauma and Recovery Services - £250.

Looking ahead to coronation

The committee noted that the Coronation of Kings Charles III would take place on Saturday, May 8. Members agreed that a task and finish group should be established to consider whether an event should be held and if so what type if event it should be.