THE owner of a West Dorset countryside business, refused planning consent, says she will appeal the decision.

Claire Ives says Dorset Council has not taken account of the need to live on the site for the welfare of her animals and guests, many of which are vulnerable.

She also says that no changes have been made to the alpaca, camping and natural therapy site at Flowerdew Farm, Puncknowle, and the buildings which the council has seen were already there for agricultural use.

She says, where possible the whole enterprise is sustainable, eco-friendly and mainly off grid.

Ms Ives believes that the level of support for the business is also under-estimated: “This is an error on the planning report, there are over 150+ letters of support mostly local and reviews, local business and an award and press articles. All available on the planning portal. This is why I am appealing, as these have been ignored,” she said.

Dorset Council had decided that the use of buildings for the business and a temporary workers’ home should not be allowed and are out of keeping with the area of outstanding natural beauty and local planning policies, with inadequate agricultural justification to live on site.

Ms Ives said she has permission already for year-round camping with a ‘wanderlust’ provision which is exempt from planning.

Puncknowle and Swyre Parish council had objected to the planning request, telling Dorset Council: “The Parish Council is not confident that the alpaca enterprise is valid on such a small site. Whilst the PC does not doubt the applicant’s energy, commitment and investment to date, the evidence before the PC does not serve to demonstrate the need for an essential rural worker’s dwelling. The need for the (new) barn is also not proven as there are buildings on site that could be used.” It also raised concerns about the safety of the entrance to the farm although Ms Ives says there are plans, at the right time, to cut a hedge back to improve visibility, which she says the parish council ignored in its response.

She also argues that the alpaca, wellbeing, craft and camping activities are all part of one whole business, not separate, as the council suggests.

“The business supports and champions farm diversification, sustainability and building back better, mental wellbeing, I currently partner with DHC START NHS Dorset Mental health team, access for all, EDI , female empowerment and LGBTQI as well as extremely high animal welfare to teach and promote farm diversification.  This is why I am appealing.”