At the Dorchester Transport Action Group (DTAG) Annual General Meeting on 12 May 2026, members reflected on another active year of campaigning, public engagement and partnership working. The meeting also marked the final annual report from Chair Stewart Palmer, who announced he would not seek re-election because of long-term health issues.
DTAG Secretary Giles Watts thanked Stewart for his leadership over the past five years, during which the group grew from an initial idea into a respected local campaigning organisation. Robin Potter was later unanimously elected as the new Chair.
In his report, Stewart highlighted DTAG’s ongoing work to improve transport, accessibility and active travel across Dorchester and the surrounding area. Over the past year the group has worked closely with local councils, transport organisations and community groups to ensure local concerns are heard and practical improvements delivered
Public engagement remained central to DTAG’s work throughout 2025 and early 2026. A summer information stand in South Street and attendance at public meetings at the Corn Exchange helped identify the transport and mobility issues most important to residents.
Encouraging safer walking and cycling continued to be a major priority. DTAG organised family cycling events at the Great Field and a successful “Glow Ride” with local schools to promote cycle safety for young people. The group also continued campaigning for safer pedestrian and cycle crossings, particularly following several serious cycling accidents during the year. DTAG helped support completion of the first phase of a safer cycle route between Dorchester and Poundbury, including a dedicated path beneath the Dorchester West railway bridge.
The group remained active in campaigning for better local bus services. DTAG welcomed the continuation of the X51 diversion through Martinstown and successfully pressed for an additional weekday morning service from Bridport. It also supported extending the Service 10 route into western Poundbury on Sundays and joined other transport groups in opposing proposed cuts to the X51 and X53 services. Following strong public opposition, the proposed reductions were withdrawn.
Rail accessibility and long-term transport planning also remained key priorities. Following improvements at Dorchester South station, DTAG continued pressing for an accessible crossing over the tracks and held further discussions with South Western Railway. The group also contributed to consultations on Dorset’s emerging Local Transport Plan and Local Plan, while supporting initiatives including car clubs, electric vehicle awareness projects and the Dorset Greenways Alliance.
In closing, Stewart thanked DTAG members, Dorchester Town Council and Dorset Council for their support over the past year. While noting that DTAG has no formal executive powers, he said the group’s achievements showed the positive impact determined community action can have on transport and accessibility in Dorchester.
Photo: Stewart Palmer (right) discusses transport issues with a member of the public at the South Street stand