Shipton Gorge and Loders Community Governance Review: Next stage

Overview

Dorset Council, at its meeting on 23 October 2025, agreed Terms of Reference for a Community Governance Review of the parishes of Shipton Gorge and Loders in accordance with Part 4, Chapter 3 of the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. Read background information about the review.

A public consultation exercise was undertaken between 3 November 2025 and 5 December 2025 seeking the views of local residents, the parish councils and other interested parties in respect of potential changes to the boundaries of both Loders and Shipton Gorge parishes.   

Representations received

In addition to the 22 registered electors that signed the original petition, Dorset Council received 29 responses to the consultation that was undertaken in November and December 2025.  One respondent did not express a view about whether the boundaries should remain as currently drawn, and of the remaining respondents, 13 requested that the boundary remain unchanged and 15 requested a change to the existing boundary namely that it was moved to its pre 2024 position but noting that 3 properties should remain within the Shipton Gorge parish. 

Why your views matter

The Council in coming to its draft recommendations in the review, has taken into account the views of local people, parish councils and other interested parties obtained through consultation as well as those received in the petition. 

There will be a period of consultation in respect of the draft recommendations between 23 February 2026 and 27 March 2026.  Any representations received will be considered by Dorset Council when making its final recommendations on 16 April 2026, following which a Reorganisation Order will be drafted to give effect to any changes agreed. 

For a paper copy of this survey, telephone Electoral Services on 01305 838299 or email elections@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk

Please note, any data collected follows Dorset Council's privacy policy.