A community gardening project in Dorchester has requested permission to expand with a polytunnel, shipping container for storage, a portable toilet and a cycle rack.

The Gap project, which seeks to help people with their mental health, currently makes used of a riverside site off Lubbecke Way – land which has been set aside for allotments.

The small plot is part of Red Cow Farm, owned by the Duchy of Cornwall, and leased to the community group through Dorchester Town Council.

The eco-therapy project was established in 2018 and has recently been awarded charity status, working on the previously overgrown site since early 2022.

Some raised beds are already in use on the site with a small parking area established just off the road.

Public comments on the proposal, which will be determined by a Dorset Council planning officer, remain open until February 7.

The only comment submitted so far is one of support from ward councillor Molly Rennie.