Dorset Council to Sell 78 Public Sites in £46.7 Million Pound Sell Off

Dorset Council has announced plans to dispose of 78 public sites across the county, aiming to generate £46.7 million and unlock land for housing, regeneration, and community investment.

The local authority states that the programme, to be implemented over the next five years, is part of its Asset Management Strategy, which aims to make “better use” of council-owned land and buildings.

“We’re ensuring that every piece of property we own contributes directly to our priorities — whether through development, community use, or sale,” a council spokesperson said. “This strategy will release value and enable us to invest in services Dorset residents rely on.”

Unlocking Land for Homes and Investment

Although the council has not yet published the full list of sites earmarked for sale, the assets include redundant offices, former school sites, garage blocks, small land parcels, and other underused buildings spread across Dorset’s districts.

Council officials say the move is designed to support new affordable housing developments, as well as provide financial headroom to maintain essential services amid growing budget pressures.

Cabinet papers describe the scheme as a “responsible release of surplus land” which will “help address Dorset’s housing shortage and attract private-sector regeneration partners.”

Community Concerns and Transparency

The plan, however, has raised questions about transparency and local consultation. Residents and parish councils have called for details on which properties are affected before disposals begin.

One commenter on the Stour & Avon Magazine website asked: “How do we get in touch to express interest? We’re currently looking for land for community use and would love to be considered before developers move in.”

In response, council officials confirmed that each disposal will be handled through the appropriate public and legal process, and that community groups will have the opportunity to register interest in certain sites under the Community Right to Bid framework.

Financial Context

The initiative comes as Dorset Council faces significant financial pressures, with an estimated £30 million funding gap in its 2026–27 budget. By converting dormant assets into capital receipts, the council hopes to safeguard spending on social care, education, and highways.

However, critics say the sale of public land can lead to long-term loss of community assets if not managed carefully.

Local campaigner Sarah James, from West Dorset Community Action, said: “We recognise the need for the council to raise money, but selling land without clear community safeguards risks losing opportunities for social housing and green space forever.”

What Happens Next

The full disposal list is expected to be released later this year once site valuations and legal clearances are complete. Individual sales will require cabinet approval and will be subject to planning and market assessment.

Residents can track updates through the Dorset Council “Property and Assets” portal, and will be invited to comment on any related planning applications.