PLANNING applications across rural Dorset decided by Dorset Council include a mix of approvals and refusals for homes, farms, and heritage buildings.

Several of the proposals seek to improve energy efficiency.

Among the approved schemes is a move towards greener energy at The Old Forge in Frome St Quintin, where an external oil boiler and tank will be replaced with an air source heat pump: At Plantation Bungalow, Chilfrome a full rebuild will incorporating solar panels and a heat pump in place of an oil heating system.

In Moreton, permission has been granted for significant changes to 8 Woodsford Lane, including the demolition of a rear conservatory and the construction of new single-storey extensions at the front and rear.

Other residential upgrades include:

• A new three-bay timber garage at 7 Halsey Green, Pulham
• A flat roof extension replacing a conservatory at 12 Airfield Close, Crossways
• Internal and external alterations to outbuildings at The Old Farm House, Elworth, Portesham

Heritage preservation also featured in the decisions, with a retrospective application approved for Domineys Yard in Buckland Newton, allowing the rethatching of the historic roof using water reed with wheat straw where it is possible to do so.

Agricultural and rural business developments saw mixed outcomes – Moonfleet Farm in Higher Ansty received approval to replace a roof and wall on its west elevation, while Chalmington Manor's bid to erect a new agricultural building had a prior approval application turned down.

A proposal to retain a rural worker's dwelling at Muston Down Farm in Druce was also rejected.