The Ferals, in Tarrant Keyneston, near Sturminster Marshall, has been secured by Dorset Council as the county’s second habitat bank under new planning rules.
This initiative aims to protect Dorset’s wildlife while meeting housing needs.
Councillor Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council, said: “It is fantastic to see the establishment of The Ferals habitat bank.
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“These habitats are a major step forward in our mission to balance the urgent need for housing with our commitment to protect and enhance Dorset’s natural environment.”
The government requires that most development projects leave nature in a better state than they found it.
To achieve this, Dorset Council has collaborated with landowners to identify habitat banks.
These are areas of land improved for wildlife to replace habitats lost during construction.
Developers can purchase ‘biodiversity gain units’ from these sites, fulfilling their planning obligations while aiding local nature recovery.
Akshay Sanghrajka of The Ferals said: “Nature recovery and new homes don’t have to be at odds.
“We’re helping to make sure that Dorset’s future growth goes hand in hand with thriving wildlife.”
The Ferals will be improved over the next 30 years, including creating species-rich wildflower meadows.