Plans for a new youth centre in Sturminster Newton have been submitted to replace an old ‘uninspiring’ scout hut
The scheme, on behalf of the town council, aims to provide ‘appropriate, flexible youth facilities in the town at the site of the current building, at the recreation ground.
Mortimer Design, on behalf of the town council, submitted the application to Dorset Council.

Plans for the new scout hut are more sympathetic to the natural environment

It said: “Sturminster Newton suffers from low levels of anti-social behaviour. There are a limited number of activities available which are carried out in a number of locations and are subject to the goodwill of building owners.
“This project will provide a home for youth groups and support organisations in Sturminster Newton.
“To ensure the long-term viability of the centre it is vital that the new trust can produce an income outside the times that the youth groups will be using the building.
“The design incorporates spaces including a café which would primarily be used for the youth groups but also family support groups, children’s parties, meetings and in connection with activities on the adjacent recreation ground.”
The proposed development would include a single-storey extension to house the cafe, with solar panels on the roof to reduce the building’s carbon footprint.
“The proposed building will form an important element of the children and youth provision within Sturminster Newton,” the application added.
“The building provides adaptable spaces to meet the current and foreseeable future potential needs for the youth of Sturminster Newton.
“The current building is uninspiring and lacks a presence.
“The proposed building will have a softer impact on and greater connection to the conservation environment.”

Residents can now comment on the application. For full details and to submit a response, log on to www.dorset.gov.uk and search for application reference P/FUL/2022/06628.