Did you know Dorchester was ahead of its time in social housing? It seems unlikely, doesn’t it? Yet the largely affluent county town was one of the first places to provide almshouses for people who couldn’t afford market rents. In 1613, a great fire destroyed 75 homes in the town, which was then the richest […]
‘Norchester’ developers have shed more light on how their plans will enhance community and protect nature. The North Dorchester Consortium, a partnership between Grainger Plc and Wyatt Homes, wants to build up to 3,750 homes to create the North Dorchester Garden Community (NDGC), nicknamed ‘Norchester’ by locals. The planning application for the first phase – […]
An accessible gaming café for adults with physical and learning disabilities has launched in Dorchester – turning a long-held dream into a reality for its creator. Louis Gale, 34, who has cerebral palsy, has wanted to open the café for some time, and held a few events at the Tank Museum in Bovington. But he […]
The first planning application of a scheme dubbed ‘Norchester’ that will change the shape of ‘Hardy country’ forever has been submitted. The outline planning application launching the North Dorchester Garden Community has been described as “nothing more than cultural vandalism”. The plan for up to 500 houses, a new London Road junction and green space […]
Another set of glorious gardens will open for charity this month, as part of the National Garden Scheme, including the grounds of designer Jasper Conran’s Bettiscombe Manor. Read on for a selection of wonderful West Dorset gardens you can visit across Bridport, Beaminster and Dorchester. Do plan your trips, as booking in advance is advisable […]
Brewery Square in Dorchester will shake under the weight of a massive D-Day tank invasion as the town heralds the arrival of the legendary Armour and Embarkation convoy on Saturday, June 20. The world-class spectacle of roaring vehicles and heavy Armour will transform Brewery Square into a living 1940s scene, drawing spectators from across the […]
Celebrity chef Lesley Waters led 80 people from across the county in a mass cook-along at Dorchester Corn Exchange to promote simple healthy cooking. The Friendly Food Club (FFC) was funded by Dorset Council to host the event, which included community groups, families, and carers and people from local charities including The Bus Shelter in […]
Pop-up Pride Dorchester is back for its second year with a fabulous and packed programme. The initiative, led by Dorchester Town Council, brings together events happening throughout Pride month in June, hosted by a range of local businesses and organisations. Events include talks, films, music activities, a drag act, poetry, craft, an art exhibition, writing […]
A young artist from Dorchester is exhibiting his work until Saturday, June 6 – and we urge you not to miss it. Thomas Hardye pupil Lucas Greenfield is just 14, but you would never know by looking at his paintings, which display a distinctive style and a level of humour and perception beyond his years. […]