People in Harman’s Cross and the neighbouring villages of Worth Matravers and Corfe Castle in Dorset are being invited to share their views on the need for affordable rented homes for people with a local connection to the villages.
A survey on the issue has been organised by Dorset Council with a deadline to complete it by Monday 13th July 2026.
Housing in Harman’s Cross is very desirable but not affordable for many
Need for affordable housing
Dorset Council says anyone who lives in, works in, or has a strong family connection to Corfe Castle, Harman’s Cross or Worth Matravers, regardless of their housing situation, is invited to take part.
A local connection means a person or their family live or have lived in the parishes, or they work more than 16 hours a week in one or both parishes.
The survey is mainly aimed at those who are in need of affordable housing but there is a section at the end to give a general view on the matter.
The field off Tabbit’s Hill Lane is earmarked for affordable housing by the Corfe Castle community land trust
Harman’s Cross proposal
The survey is part of the plans by Corfe Castle Community Land Trust (CLT) to build a number of affordable rented homes on land off Tabbit’s Hill Lane in Harman’s Cross.
It has been working with the landowner the Corfe Castle Charity and the housing association Aster Group on the proposal.
The site sits within Corfe Castle parish but is close to the boundaries of Worth Matravers parish and Harman’s Cross village.
Aster, in collaboration with the CLT, is preparing to submit a planning application for the site later in 2026 and will engage with both Corfe Castle and Harman’s Cross villages to discuss the plans when they are drawn up.
To help with this, the survey will gather evidence of what support there is for affordable housing for the local community.
The last community land trust housing scheme to be completed in Purbeck was the Worth Matravers Roman Barn scheme in 2012
“Help shape future development”
Dorset Council says this survey is an opportunity for residents to share their views.
Councillor Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said:
“We know how important it is that homes built in our villages meet and reflect the needs of local people.
“This survey gives residents a real chance to have their say and help shape future development. I would encourage people to take part and share their views so that any plans reflect what matters most to them locally.”
Further information
- Complete the online survey
- To get help to complete the survey, obtain a paper copy, or to ask any questions, email housingenabling@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or phone 01305 252442
