An important tool for informing planning decisions in a highly protected area

Matrix Partnership was appointed to undertake a characterisation study of  the 9 principal towns and villages of Purbeck, Dorset.

The study required a detailed assessment of the features that make each settlement special and distinctive and, set in a highly protected landscape (AONB, Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site), it also required a special appreciation of the important relationship between towns, villages and the wider landscape.

The report for each settlement included a systematic analysis of a variety of features that contribute to the character of each settlement under a range of different headings such as historic evolution, street pattern and townscape quality.  Character areas were also identified and analysed together with a SWOT analysis of each.

The study, that involved stakeholder and public consultations, has become an important reference document for both the planning authority and the public as a valuable tool, informing and guiding the planning process.