TWO Dorchester schools are asking for solar panels to be installed to help reduce their energy needs and carbon footprint.

Planning proposals have been submitted for the Middle School in Queens Avenue and Damers School at Poundbury.

At the middle school around 260 panels are being proposed for most of the flat and pitched roofs, capable or producing around 115kWp in ideal conditions.

One neighbour had already written to express concern about the effect of some of the panels on the Conservation Area.

At Damers School 420 panels are proposed, capable of generating 185kWp.

Other applications in the Dorchester area, currently being considered by Dorset Council, include new signage for a South Street shop.

The full details of all the applications can be seen, and commented on, by visiting the council website, using the references provided.

P/PASO/2025/01206 : Dorchester County Middle School Queens Avenue Dorchester DT1 2HS. Installation of solar panels on roof of the school

P/PASO/2025/01529 : Damers First School Liscombe Street Poundbury Dorchester DT1 3DF. Installation of solar panels on the roof of the school

P/LBC/2024/06465 : 4 Cornhill Dorchester DT1 1BA. Carry out internal alterations replace flat roof and remove rooflights

P/LBC/2025/01183 : 9 South Street Dorchester DT1 1BL. Display 1no. non-illuminated fascia sign, display 1no. non-illuminated hanging sign. Decorations to brand logo colours

P/HOU/2025/01043 : 1 Rothesay Road Dorchester DT1 2DT. Replace garage with single-storey, lean-to "wrap round" extension.

P/PALH/2025/01057 : 87 South Court Avenue Dorchester DT1 2DA. Erect rear extension: To extend 5.40 metres beyond the rear wall of the original dwelling house: maximum height 3.20 metres: height to eaves 2.25 metres

P/HOU/2025/01058 : 16 Arnhem Green Dorchester DT1 2PS. Erect first floor side extension

P/HOU/2025/01125 : 4 Manor Road Dorchester DT1 2AU. Erect single storey rear extension with associated alterations.