Dorset's countryside will be the stage for a landmark celebration as CPRE, the countryside charity, marks 100 years of protecting green spaces from urban sprawl. The event takes place at Milton Abbey, between Blandford and Dorchester, from 5pm to 7.45pm on Friday, September 25, and will bring together residents and nature lovers to honour a century of conservation.
Kate Adie to Lead Centenary Debate
Renowned journalist and broadcaster Kate Adie, President of Dorset CPRE, will open the evening and chair a panel discussion on the urgent question: "What is the future of the countryside?" The debate promises to be thought-provoking, with a focus on how to safeguard Dorset's natural heritage for future generations.
Since its founding, CPRE has worked to shield rural communities and historic landscapes from unsustainable development. The charity was instrumental in creating England's National Parks and Green Belts and shaping the modern planning system. A new book by Professor Matthew Kelly, Protecting the Countryside, published by Bridport's Little Toller Books, explores CPRE's history.
Panel of Experts and Local Leaders
The panel will include Mary-Ann Ochota, National CPRE President; Cllr Nick Ireland, leader of Dorset Council; and George Hosford, a leading Dorset farmer and agricultural advisor to Dorset CPRE. Ochota said: "Across age, geography and political outlook, people are united in believing the countryside should be protected - because it matters to everyday life."
Kate Adie added: "Throughout the county in Dorset, we're becoming more and more aware of the impact of planning for the countryside, which sometimes rides roughshod over known local concerns and expertise. It's not nimbyism. I don't have to remind anyone that Dorset's landscape is special and our treasure."
Event Highlights and Ticket Information
The discussion will be followed by canapés and wine. Guests can also take a 40-minute self-guided walk along the Milton Abbas Experience Trail. The venue, Milton Abbey, is set in the grounds of Milton Abbey School, near the village of Milton Abbas, commonly regarded as the first planned village in England.
Dorset CPRE Chair Jez Hughes said: "Thousands of people have contributed to the achievements of CPRE - volunteers, members and supporters - working locally and nationally to protect the countryside. Whether you're a long-standing member or just curious to learn more about our work, we would love to see you at our celebratory event. The debate promises to be thought-provoking, and it will be a wonderful occasion to mingle inside stunning Milton Abbey, explore the breathtaking landscape designed by Lancelot 'Capability' Brown and reflect on 100 years of CPRE."
Tickets for the event are £20. To book, visit the CPRE Dorset website.
Centenary Tree Planting Campaign
In addition to the celebration, Dorset CPRE plans to plant hundreds of trees this autumn, including endangered species like Britain's rarest native timber tree, the Black Poplar. The initiative aims to offset climate change, restore wetlands, and replace trees afflicted by disease, such as Ash Dieback. The charity has launched a £7,000 public crowdfunder to plant up to 250 trees, with donations accepted via JustGiving.
