SDO21101 - Desk Based Assessment at Land Adjacent to Blandford St Mary, Dorset

‘This historic environment desk-based assessment considers land adjacent to Blandford St Mary, Dorset (hereinafter referred to as the “study site”). In accordance with government policy (National Planning Policy Framework), this assessment draws together the available archaeological, historic, topographic and land-use information in order to clarify the heritage significance and archaeological potential of the study site. The assessment has identified no designated or non-designated assets within the study site. An assessment of archaeological potential has been undertaken which is based on a geophysical survey from within the site and archaeological investigations to the immediate north and south. The study site forms part of the agricultural hinterland of known settlement and is considered to have low potential for all historic periods. As such, the resulting groundworks associated with the proposed development are considered to have no impacts or effects in relation to archaeology. Archaeology is not considered to preclude or represent a constraint on potential development of the study site. No further archaeological works are recommended to inform the determination of planning consent in relation to archaeological considerations. The assessment has identified no designated archaeological assets in the wider area that are sensitive to change by the proposed development by effects to their setting. The study site contains to designated or non-designated built heritage assets. The setting of designated and non-designated heritage assets in the wider area has been considered. The development of the site has the theoretical potential to have indirect impacts on the Grade II* listed Church of St Mary. Subject to sensitive design, particularly in terms of building height, density and materials palette, the proposed development is unlikely to detract from distant views of the church. Whilst it is recognised that this will result in a change to the setting of this designated asset, it is not considered a change that is harmful.’