Managing club: Wessex Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club
Site briefing
Planning information for Friar Waddon
Landing
Top landing: Land back on take-off. Note that the hill drops away behind take off and is likely to suffer turbulence and rotor should you be blown back.
Bottom landing: Bottom landing (///confusion.taker.skid) is available in the area indicated on the map. However, beware of the power lines running north to south immediately to the west of landing and give regard to crops and livestock. The exit from the bottom field to the nearest road is by a gate at the far east of the landing field (///widen.unfair.hobbit), note that vehicular access to the bottom landing field is NOT permitted.
Access and parking
From the A354 Dorchester to Weymouth Rd come over the Ridgeway around the hairpin bend under the railway bridge and turn right into Elwell St, Upwey, continue to the end of the road. At the “T” junction turn right and follow the road to Goulds Hill. As you start up the hill take the next turning left into Friar Waddon Rd. Continue to Corton Gap (immediately under the pylons) park safely and sensibly on the extended verge (on your right as you approach). If approaching from the west B3157 as you enter the village of Portesham turn left at the Kings Arms Public House and take the first right, Friar Waddon Rd and follow it to Corton Gap.
Parking is limited and requires care and consideration as this is a narrow country lane. There is room for approximately 4 vehicles on the obvious wide part of the verge on the north side of the Corton Gap (///plans.clearcut.guitar). There is NO PARKING at the farm or opposite by the gate (///vanish.suspend.grafted) as this is needed for farm vehicles and lorries to turn. Under no circumstances should any part of your vehicle overhang Friar Waddon Rd.
Local guidance
Hazards and cautions
The face of the ridge at take-off is very steep and, in some places, almost rises vertically. There is sufficient space to land back on top in the bounded field, However, at the rear of the top field the slope runs down towards the north with the problems of rotor and turbulence. The field is bounded on all sides with barbed wire fencing. The field is used by walkers and riders and is occasionally stocked with livestock. The overhead powerlines that ran to the West of the site have now been re- routed underground.
Forecasts are planning aids, not safety clearance. Check current observations, official airspace and NOTAM information, local rules and your own experience before every flight.