Fencing at Stephens Castle in Verwood was deliberately cut in several places, putting a planned grazing project for heathland conservation at risk, with extra patrols planned locally. Deliberate damage to fencing at Stephens Castle in Verwood has put conservation work at risk. Fencing across the heathland site was cut in several places between Thursday 15 October and Friday 16 October, and Dorset Council says the whole fence line will now need to be rewired after earlier damage in recent weeks. The new fencing has been installed so grazing animals can be introduced shortly, with Natural Eng
Deliberate damage to fencing at Stephens Castle in Verwood has put conservation work at risk.
Fencing across the heathland site was cut in several places between Thursday 15 October and Friday 16 October, and Dorset Council says the whole fence line will now need to be rewired after earlier damage in recent weeks.
The new fencing has been installed so grazing animals can be introduced shortly, with Natural England supporting the long term plan to manage scrub, help heathland habitats and reduce the need for heavy machinery.
Councillor Jack Jeanes, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Place Services, said the authority was “extremely disappointed” and warned that deliberate damage “puts public money at risk” and could create safety issues once livestock are on site.
Multiple gates and access points have been included so residents can still use the site, including dog walkers, while the fence has been designed to allow deer and smaller mammals to move through the landscape.
Dorset Police has been informed, and extra patrols will take place in the area as officers and the council ask anyone with information or who saw suspicious activity to get in touch.
