A PARTNERSHIP that began with fixing roads is now quietly transforming communities across Dorset.

For more than 15 years, Dorset Council and Heidelberg Materials have worked side by side to maintain and build the county’s highways.

Since 2009, that collaboration has introduced carbon-saving technologies, recycled thousands of tonnes of materials and helped keep Dorset moving.

But its impact now stretches well beyond tarmac and traffic, as together, the two organisations are investing thousands of volunteer hours into local projects – offering skills, materials and hands-on support to charities, community groups and wellbeing initiatives across the county.

One of the projects to benefit this year is Blandford Animal Sanctuary, a well-loved refuge in Blandford Forum that provides lifelong care for rescued animals while also acting as a community education hub.

The site has seen a series of practical improvements including a new entrance, relocated storage containers, a fitted-out storage unit, improved drainage, a newly created duck pond and a full site clean-up.

Beth from the sanctuary said the changes will make a tangible difference, especially through the winter months.

“The new hard-standing area looks brilliant and will make a huge difference for the animals this winter,” she said.

“It’s such a relief to know they’ll have a clean, dry area to stand and rest, helping to keep their feet healthy and avoid sores through the muddy months.

“Thank you for all your hard work and support. It means a lot to everyone here — both two-legged and four-legged!”

In Shillingstone, another project has focused on wellbeing and inclusion.

The Big Yellow Bus Garden Project, located alongside the North Dorset Trailway, is an inclusive outdoor space featuring a formal garden, community growing areas and a wildflower orchard complete with beehives.

During their annual volunteer day, a Heidelberg Materials team built a new disability-accessible path and constructed a safer, more modern entrance from the main road, improving access for visitors of all abilities.

The partnership has also taken its community focus into local schools. Heidelberg Materials recently published a series of storybooks created through a local competition, with copies now being distributed to schools across Dorset to encourage creativity and reading.

With momentum building, the partnership is now looking to expand its social value work even further.

Community organisations with projects that could benefit from practical, on-the-ground support are encouraged to get in touch as the collaboration continues to turn infrastructure expertise into community change.