Environment & weather
The latest news about the environment and the weather covering storms, landslips, the coast and the countryside in Swanage and Purbeck.
Empty nesters hope for return of Purbeck ospreys in 2024 Staff at a Purbeck nature reserve have waved off their most famous family on a trip fraught with danger to Africa. 
Time Team digs for answers about Iron Age Purbeck One of Britain’s best loved TV series has taken up a three-day archaeology challenge near Corfe Castle in Dorset. 
Swanage fete profits help disaster relief effort in Morocco and Libya A donation of £3,000 has been sent from Swanage and Purbeck Rotary to help those who have lost their homes in the recent disasters. 
Purbeck ploughs on with making homes greener Homeowners in Purbeck who’ve reduced their energy bills and carbon footprint are opening their doors to inspire others to do the same. 
Multi million pound scheme proposed for Swanage seafront Two options to stabilise the eroding cliff under Sandpit Field - Swanage’s major event space - have been drawn up by architects, and both will cost Swanage Town Council millions ... 
For peat’s sake – Purbeck bogs to be rewet and restored A £1 million project to reinstate Dorset’s historic peatlands will start in autumn 2023 with half of the work taking place in Purbeck. 
George Burt’s Great Globe gets a steam clean at Durlston As the crowning glory to the restoration of the Pleasure Grounds at Durlston Country Park in Dorset, the iconic stone Great Globe has been given a clean - WATCH VIDEO 
Invader crabs muscle their way onto Purbeck beaches A new species of crab to the Purbeck Coast is beginning to make itself at home among the rockpools - and may edge out the sitting tenants. 
Demolition team to help Studland’s Middle Beach return to nature Diggers are all set to move in and break up the concrete base of the old Middle Beach cafe at Studland in Dorset, as the next step in returning the ... 
Eye-catching totem pole erected by Wareham men’s group Dorset beauty spot Blue Pool near Wareham has taken delivery of a colourful new attraction created by a men’s group that promotes social inclusivity and wellbeing. 
Flagging up excellence at Swanage’s pitch perfect park Beach Gardens in Swanage in Dorset has proudly taken its place in a prestigious list of Britain’s best green spaces. 
TV wildlife star to headline Planet Purbeck festival Rising TV star Nadeem Perera will be the big draw at the 2023 Planet Purbeck Festival in Swanage when he fronts a celebration of local wildlife at The Mowlem. 
Swanage bandstand centenary concert cancelled as storm sweeps in History has repeated itself almost 100 years to the day that Swanage Bandstand was first opened, as the worst summer storm in years has now forced its centenary celebrations to ... 
Percy the Plesiosaur swims to Swanage to highlight plastic trash During Swanage Carnival week anything goes and this year is no different with a visit expected from a plastic plesiosaur swimming across the bay chasing extreme swimmer Oly Rush - ... 
Making Purbeck wilder – opinion of local people wanted Community group Planet Purbeck will be getting out and about this summer in an effort to find out what everyone thinks - not just the green enthusiasts - about making ... 
Kimmeridge stomach stone fossil sets world record A mysterious fossil found on Kimmeridge beach in Dorset has turned out to be a record breaking 150 million year old medical complaint. 
Water company to reduce storm sewage flowing into Swanage Bay Work costing millions is being planned by Wessex Water to dramatically reduce the number of times that sewage is discharged into Swanage Bay after prolonged spells of heavy rain. 
Swap your clothes at The Mowlem in Swanage Not a saucy comedy at Swanage’s theatre but a practical way to update your wardrobe for free, the clothes swap event is being organised by the local environment group Sustainable ... 
New vision for Swanage’s seafront floated A draft document billed as a masterplan, has been published identifying areas of the seafront in Swanage that could benefit from investment. 
Springwatch boosts passion for nature on Swanage Downs There’s plenty of enthusiasm for getting involved in nature surveys and walks on Swanage’s newly designated local nature reserve, inspired by BBC Springwatch. 
Bee friendly as swarming season suddenly arrives in Purbeck Purbeck beekeepers are urging people not to panic if they encounter a swarm this spring - as the endangered insects need all the help they can get. 
Vole-unteers needed to monitor Ratty’s return to Purbeck Volunteer water vole wardens are being sought in Purbeck to confirm a theory that the endangered creature is staging a local recovery. 
Chance to view Purbeck’s secret osprey nest sells out in hours Tickets for a guided tour to see the secret osprey nest near Wareham have sold out completely within four hours of going online. 
BBC Springwatch TV programme to broadcast live from Purbeck The wildlife-rich habitats across Purbeck, including at Durlston, are to star in the latest BBC Springwatch series, presented by Chris Packham and Michaela Strachan from RSPB Arne. 
Warning as ‘significant’ Swanage landslip is still active A cliff fall in Swanage Bay caused by heavy spring rains could be a danger to beach users while still active, Swanage Coastguard has warned. 
Swanage Railway saves disposable barbecue charcoal from landfill A supermarket that stopped selling single use barbecues has recycled its old stock and given six tonnes of charcoal briquettes to Swanage Railway. 
Secret lives of Swanage Bay black bream fish caught on camera Underwater cameras placed between Swanage and Kimmeridge have allowed a first glimpse into a secret world where male fish build nests and then protect thousands of eggs from enemies. 
Time’s up for Studland cafe as tide begins to reclaim Middle Beach A demolition team has started work to remove the iconic Middle Beach Cafe at Studland in Dorset, as the next phase of natural beach reclamation begins at the site. 
Star Wars filming called off as Purbeck caves in danger of collapse Disney bosses have cancelled a film shoot for the latest Star Wars series of Andor at Winspit Quarry near Worth Matravers in Dorset, on safety grounds 
Swanage open space gets local nature reserve status Peveril Point and the Downs in Swanage has been officially designated as a local nature reserve giving it extra protection and enhancement. 
New campaign to dispose of single use barbecues in Dorset forever While Swanage’s Co-op has restocked disposable barbecues for the summer, Southern Co-op, a separate retailer in Dorset has banned them for good and is recycling its old stock. 
Chance to help spring clean Purbeck’s beaches In a concerted effort to clear up the local beaches including Swanage and Studland, the 33rd Great Dorset Beach Clean is taking place. 
Nature fair promotes the wilder side of Wareham A showcase for a natural alternative to bucket and spade beach holidays is to be held in Wareham to promote Purbeck. 
‘Truly shocking’ plastic pollution washed ashore at Kimmeridge Bay An increasingly large amount of plastic pellets known as nurdles are posing a real threat to marine wildlife at Kimmeridge in Dorset. 
Family win approval for controversial self build in Purbeck village Unable to afford Purbeck house prices, a young couple have battled local opposition to build their own home on a field owned by relatives. 
Work starts to count the cost of oil spill in Poole Harbour Volunteers carried out an emergency survey of Poole Harbour, counting every bird to assess the damage caused by an oil spill from Wytch Farm. 
Swanage looks for hedgehog heroes to beat prickly problem A meeting has been called in Swanage to help save the hedgehog as their numbers continue to plummet to critical levels. 
Poole Harbour oil leak: Europe’s largest onshore oilfield ‘temporarily suspended’ Perenco UK says that it has temporarily shut down operations at Wytch Farm oil well near Corfe Castle after the oil spill into Poole Harbour. 
Wildlife fears spark frantic clean up of Poole Harbour oil leak Serious concerns are being raised about the long term health of wading birds and sea creatures after the Wytch Farm oil pipeline leak. 
Major incident as Purbeck oil leaks into Poole Harbour near Arne The clean up operation is underway after a spillage from Wytch Farm oil well near Corfe Castle, leaked from a pipeline into Poole Harbour. 
Thousands raised for more eco buoys to save Studland’s seahorses Another 22 eco buoys will be installed in Studland Bay after a 'phenomenal' £66,000 was raised in just a few months. 
Still rocking it at 96, Sir David opens his last BBC series at Old Harry Sir David Attenborough will open his final BBC series from Old Harry to celebrate the best of British natural history. 
Second home owners ‘unhappy’ over Dorset Council’s tax plan As Dorset Council took another step towards introducing a second home tax, councillors said they had been inundated with emails and letters from many second home owners. 
Studland dog walkers asked to keep their distance to save rare birds More awareness of wading birds and their habitat along the Studland peninsula is being urged, to help protect the overwintering visitors. 
Second home tax in Dorset may fund new affordable housing Plans to double council tax bills for second home owners in Dorset have taken a further step forward. 
Major dig for Roman and Iron Age artefacts to start in Purbeck Archaeologists are to begin a three-year dig at Arne Moor in search of evidence of Iron Age and Roman settlements there. 
Great big campaign to restore hedgerows across Purbeck begins The most ambitious survey ever of the network of hedgerows from Swanage to Wareham has started, as part of the Great Big Dorset Hedge project. 
Beaver scheme for Studland could become reality in months Beavers could soon be reintroduced to Purbeck for the first time in 400 years after expert evidence was presented to MPs at Westminster 
Power lines to be buried to restore beauty spot near Swanage Overhead electricity lines in Ulwell, Swanage, are being buried underground as part of a £15 million scheme to make the scenery more beautiful. 
Watch out for ‘floating terrors’ washing up on Purbeck beaches Walkers along the Purbeck Coast, especially those with dogs, are being warned to look out for a venomous sea creature washing up on shore. 
New mystery object on Swanage Beach sparks intrigue The sight of a newly installed concrete block with a pole and a camera-like device along Swanage’s seafront has left passers-by mystified. 
From coast to coaster – how Oly is tackling Purbeck’s plastics problem Long distance swimmer and environmentalist Oly Rush has come up with an inventive way to deal with the tons of plastic rubbish which washes up along Purbeck’s Jurassic Coast every ... 
Hundreds of acres in Purbeck to be flooded to save Poole property Fields to the east of Wareham will be deliberately flooded over the next three years to create a new 500 acre nature reserve for wading birds. 
Ready Sheddies go for Durlston expansion in 2023 A pioneering project set up at Durlston Country Park in Swanage to help people with disabilities or mental health issues has been so successful that it’s ready to expand in ... 
Divers uncover secrets of WW2 plane found in sea off Purbeck coast Wreck detectives have finally uncovered the secrets of a Nazi plane at the bottom of Worbarrow Bay. 
Jubilee trees planted across Purbeck for the Queen Swanage, Studland and Corfe Castle have marked the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee by planting commemorative trees. 
New village hall for Swanage gets planning approval The 1940s village hall in Herston in West Swanage is set to be demolished and replaced with an energy efficient community building. 
Horse paddock in Swanage tipped for new affordable housing It’s a longshot but a field currently used for horses may become the location for Swanage’s first community-led social housing project. 
Purbeck wakes up to snow, ice and fog as temperature drops Black ice on roads and pavements in Swanage and across Purbeck caused a number of incidents - SEE PHOTOS 
Plans to convert Swanage care home into flats An application has been made to change Wordsworth Care Home in Swanage into 16 apartments, following its closure after the death of 16 residents from Covid. 
Surge in electric cars could lead to £1 million charge for Swanage A rapid move towards electric cars could lead to a shocking £1million charge for Swanage Town Council by 2030 
National Trust to demolish Studland beach cafe due to coastal erosion Climate change has been blamed for the decision to permanently close a beach cafe which has been a vital part of Studland for 120 years. 
New research claims eco moorings could save Studland’s seahorses A new type of boat mooring in Studland Bay could be the key to protecting seagrass – the essential habitat for seahorses - according to university researchers. 
Kimmeridge oil well to stop contentious burning of waste gases A controversial gas flare which burns off methane along the World Heritage coastline at Kimmeridge could be extinguished within three months. Swanage aims to take back control over town planning Work has begun to create a neighbourhood plan for Swanage which is likely to include new policies on affordable housing, second homes and new building developments. 
New Swanage webcam launched with panoramic view of bay A new webcam with a spectacular view over Swanage Bay has just started streaming 24 hours a day. 
What next for Durlston after pleasure grounds success? The team who made the restoration of the pleasure grounds at Durlston Country Park in Swanage possible, gathered to mark the end of the highly successful four year project. 
Short films starring Purbeck released after festival premiere First shown at The Mowlem in Swanage during the recent Planet Purbeck Festival, three short films featuring among other things, seahorses, cows and beavers, have been released online. 
Planning starts for revamp of Swanage seafront Work has begun to create a long term vision for the seafront from Swanage Pier to the stream at Ocean Bay in Swanage. 
Pick up energy saving tips by visiting Purbeck’s eco homes Residents in Swanage and across Purbeck are inviting others to come and see the measures they’ve taken to make their homes greener and more energy efficient. 
Kimmeridge nurdle hunt to help save Purbeck’s sea life The Wild Seas Centre at Kimmeridge is highlighting the threat of tiny bits of plastic called nurdles that end up on our beaches. 
Mystery surrounds why there’s so few hedgehogs in Swanage A new map shows that Swanage has some of the lowest numbers of hedgehogs anywhere in Dorset. 
Planet Purbeck to run a ‘fitting’ festival to honour the Queen Events at the Planet Purbeck Festival on the day of the Queen's funeral have been cancelled - but most of what's planned for the 10 day eco festival will still ... 
Controversial Purbeck wind turbines delayed by another year A windfarm at a Purbeck quarry, which was the subject of a 20-year planning battle, won't now be operational until 2023. 
Volunteers remove piles of rubbish from Durlston Bay by boat A team, including a Dorset-based record breaking swimmer, has cleared discarded lobster pots and other plastic from Durlston Bay in Swanage. 
Dorset campaign boosted as some Co-op stores stop sale of barbecues Litter Free Dorset says it’s ‘redoubling’ its efforts to get disposable barbecues removed from shops as Southern Co-op said it was stopping sales. 
Dog lovers anger at National Trust restrictions on Purbeck heaths Some dog owners are at loggerheads with the National Trust after signs telling them to keep their pets on a lead appeared on open land near Corfe Castle. 
Have your say on boats mooring in Studland seahorse habitat Views are being sought on how best boats can continue to visit Studland Bay without affecting the seagrass habitat of the local seahorse population 
Football crazy badgers give Swanage Town Council £30,000 bill Badgers tunnelling under the entrance to Swanage’s football club are causing the road to collapse, leaving Swanage Town Council with a large repair bill. 
New repair café to get things fixed at Corfe Castle Environment group Sustainable Swanage is spreading the message ‘Don’t end it, mend it’, as its third repair café takes place, this time at Sandy Hill Arts centre in Corfe Castle. 
Action to make Swanage Beach easier to access New matting to make it less challenging for wheelchairs and pushchairs to get across Swanage's soft sand, has been installed. Acclaimed author headlines Dorset energy debate on achieving net zero An impressive array of experts have been invited by eco groups Planet Purbeck and DorsetCAN to lead a public debate on the energy crisis. 
Marine adventures at Kimmeridge as part of national wildlife event Dolphin watching from the cliff-top look-out at Kimmeridge Bay is just one of the featured events in a fortnight of marine-themed activities organised by Dorset Wildlife Trust. 
‘Don’t feed the locals’ say Dorset campaign group With greedy gulls becoming increasingly aggressive, especially in seaside towns like Swanage, the Litter Free Dorset team is reminding visitors and the local community not to feed the seagulls. 
‘Devastating’ Stoborough heath fire caused by barbecue A fire started by a portable barbecue has ‘decimated’ a hectare of RSPB-owned heathland at Stoborough near Wareham, killing rare wildlife. 
Action to safeguard Swanage’s footpaths urged by report A report detailing all of Swanage’s 34 miles of public paths and bridleways has made far reaching recommendations to maintain and enhance the network. 
Swanage Mayor makes a splash at new water refill station A new drinking water fountain to promote the refill of bottles rather than single use plastic bottles has been officially opened by Swanage Town Mayor Tina Foster. 
Robots to explore extent of seagrass on Studland’s seabed A seafloor survey of seagrass - the essential habitat for seahorses - is to be conducted over the summer in Studland Bay. 
Swift action required as birds return to Swanage for the summer The newly formed Swanage branch of the Swift Conservation group is urging others to join in their effort to halt the dramatic decline in the number of swifts in the ... 
Swanage Coastwatch webcam back online ‘by summer’ A new panoramic webcam has been installed at the Swanage NCI station after the previous one was damaged by storms. 
Stop selling disposable barbecues this summer plea Litter Free Dorset is renewing its call to end the sale of disposable barbecues in Swanage and across Dorset after the Canford Heath wildfire. 
Old and new Swanage gardens opening for charity in 2022 An 88 year old gardener is celebrating nearly thirty years of opening her historic gardens, while another garden in Swanage is opening for the very first time. Cancer charity’s Big Hike challenge is coming to Swanage Launched as an outdoor fundraiser in 2021 amid the pandemic, Cancer Research UK’s Big Hike challenge is now happening in Purbeck this summer. 
Plea to stop tossing drink cans onto Swanage’s road verges Volunteers, who annually clear litter from road verges between Swanage and Wareham, are calling for people to stop chucking rubbish out of their cars. 
Exciting new Swanage play area aiming for Easter opening A new children’s play area is starting to take shape next to the skatepark in the centre of Swanage. 
National Trust buys Worth Matravers farm and Winspit Quarry The National Trust has purchased a 350 acre farm with the aim of returning the fields to wildlife-friendly grassland and protecting rare bats Chance to take part in the Great Dorset Beach Clean 2022 Dates have been announced with events taking place in Studland, Lulworth, Kimmeridge and Chapman’s Pool. 
Quarry near Swanage blasts a path to ‘net zero carbon’ future A lockdown project with a difference as a quarry near Swanage has spent the last two years reducing its carbon emissions. 
Power cuts, travel disruption, flood alert and another wind warning for Swanage Storm Franklin has blown into Swanage with westerly gusts up to 50 mph, prompting the Met Office to issue a Yellow wind warning. 
Storm Eunice blows through Swanage with gusto As Storm Eunice approached Swanage, the Met Office upgraded its wind warning for the area from Amber to Red - the highest level of alert - WATCH VIDEO. 
Amber wind warning sees Swanage batten down the hatches The Friday Market is cancelled and students are being asked to work from home as Storm Eunice sweeps through Swanage. 
New access to Tilly Whim caves as part of Durlston project For the first time in decades, visitors to Durlston Country Park in Swanage will be able to peek inside Tilly Whim caves. 
Plastic bottle, believed to be 65 years old, washes up on Jurassic Coast One of the oldest examples of plastic packaging ever to be recovered on a beach, has been found at Chapman’s Pool near Swanage. 
Developer wins battle to scrap affordable homes at Swanage site In what’s been called ‘a travesty of planning’, a building company has won its case not to provide social housing at the former St Mary's School site. . 
Police investigate after rare eagle found dead in Dorset Dorset Police are appealing for information after a white-tailed eagle was recovered by a multi agency operation, one of two found dead in the south of England. 
Opportunity to train as a riverfly monitor at Corfe River A training workshop is being run by Dorset Wildlife Trust for those willing to don their wellies and paddle in the River Corfe to assess its water quality. Radical rethink by Dorset Council to reduce building in countryside Environment groups across Dorset including Purbeck are welcoming proposals to delay a key planning document and reduce the number of homes to be built on green fields. 
Dig this – Swanage seafront gets spruced up! The operations team for Swanage Town Council has been busy planting out more trees, shrubs and perennials to improve the appearance of the town and its eco credentials. 
Corfe gets a new castle but this time it’s for the kids! Work is nearing completion on a new play area for youngsters in Corfe Castle and it’s taken its inspiration from the village’s most famous landmark. 
Durlston Castle to get solar panels to reduce carbon footprint Planning permission has been granted to install solar panels at the Victorian Grade II listed Victorian folly near Swanage. 
Children tackle tree planting at Swanage and Wareham rugby club As part of a game plan to combat climate change, Swanage and Wareham RFC and Sustainable Wareham teamed up to plant 30 new trees. 
Brave Swanage swimmers take a Boxing Day dip Disorganised in the best possible way, hundreds took the plunge for the annual Boxing Day swim in Swanage - WATCH VIDEO. 
Behind the scenes as Extreme E car racing arrives in Bovington More used to army tanks, Bovington in Dorset has been transformed into an off-road racing track for Extreme E and it's helping beavers too! 
Controversial Purbeck wind farm to become reality after 20 year battle The final sections of a massive windfarm are arriving at a Purbeck quarry, which will provide eight megawatts of renewable energy. 
Plans to redevelop Harrow House in Swanage revealed Local people are invited to a public exhibition to see the proposals for the former Harrow House site in Swanage. 
Parents object to plans for Old Swanage Grammar School site A house builder is being asked to reconsider its planning application for 90 homes in Swanage to take into account the health and wellbeing of school children. 
Ban on BBQs and anti social camping not proposed for Swanage and Studland A legally enforceable ban on antisocial behaviour is being proposed by Dorset Council for some areas but not for the majority of Purbeck. 
Worth Matravers church closed and facing half a million pound repair bill The church in Worth Matravers near Corfe Castle, has been closed for safety reasons, after a routine survey condemned the roof as unsafe. 
Launch of plan to build affordable homes to rent in Swanage Local residents fed up with the lack of reasonably priced housing in Swanage are launching a new charitable trust to build affordable homes to rent. 
Helicopter used for Ulwell reservoir repairs A helicopter was brought in to carry around 44 tons of machinery and materials up a steep hill near Swanage as part of a tricky reservoir improvement project. 
Footpath from Kimmeridge village to the bay improved A footpath has been given a ‘makeover’ to establish a new walking trail linking the village of Kimmeridge to the bay. 
Volunteers prepare Swanage pier for winter weather Volunteers are carrying out essential maintenance work on the Victorian pier at Swanage in preparation for winter weather. 
Second Planet Purbeck Festival in pipeline after success in 2021 Hailing its first festival as “a success way beyond our expectations”, the environment group Planet Purbeck says it’s already planning a festival for next year. 
Surprise discovery of baby red squirrels in mild Purbeck autumn Rare baby red squirrels, normally born in spring, were an unexpected find in a nesting box on Brownsea Island, part of the recently designated Purbeck Heaths National Nature Reserve. 
Durlston receives international award in record breaking year The international quality mark for parks and greenspaces - the Green Flag Award, has been awarded to Durlston Country Park, alongside five other Dorset Council countryside sites. 
Swanage anglers claim fishing rules could threaten livelihood Fishing and the wider economy of Swanage could be adversely affected by new marine conservation zones, anglers fear. 
Cleaning up Wareham rivers to prevent pollution in our sea Thirty volunteers turned out for a litter pick along the River Frome and Piddle to help stop plastic and other rubbish from heading down to Poole Harbour. 
Earlier winter opening hours for Swanage tip to meet local demand Residents are being given the opportunity to tip up earlier to the Swanage recycling centre over winter, as new opening hours are introduced. 
Chance to visit eco homes in Swanage and get inspired Environmentally friendly homeowners in Swanage are opening their doors to the public to show what they’ve done to encourage others to do the same. Week-long eco festival across Purbeck gets off to a flying start The Planet Purbeck Festival, which celebrates our local natural environment, began well with a special visitor flying in. 
Dorset Wildlife Trust hands over garden to Swanage community In an official ceremony with the Swanage Mayor present, the Greengage Project team has taken over the community garden in Prospect Crescent. 
Voluntary no anchor zone for boats to be introduced in Studland Bay In a bid to protect seahorses in Studland Bay, boats are going to be asked not to drop anchor in the area of seagrass. 
Plans to be revealed for new village hall in Swanage Residents are invited to see the architect's drawings and give their views on the proposals to rebuild Herston Village Hall in Jubilee Road. 
Wanda the Waste Warrior fights plastic pollution in Purbeck A six metre fish sculpture to encourage the recycling of plastic and cans, as well as refilling and reusing bottles, is travelling to Studland, Swanage and Wareham. 
Rare sand-loving insects boosted by creation of new habitat in Purbeck An attempt to increase the number of endangered Purbeck mason wasps and heath tiger beetles on heathland near Arne has been hailed a success. 
The Bigbelly arrives in Swanage to tackle growing litter A new solution to Swanage’s bin problem is being trialled with the deployment of two Bigbelly bins on the seafront that compact litter. 
Look but don’t touch! The beautiful visitors to the Dorset coast Marine experts say jellyfish are misunderstood – we should appreciate their beauty and help count them – but just don’t touch! 
Plans to create a Purbeck ‘New Forest’ take shape Cattle, ponies and pigs are to be allowed to freely roam across an extended area of heathland between Stoborough, Corfe Castle and Arne. 
Visitors and residents join forces in Swanage to tackle beach litter Despite pleas to beachgoers to take their rubbish home, volunteers are being kept busy ensuring Swanage Beach is clean, tidy and litter-free. 
“Selfish behaviour” condemned after barbecue causes Arne fire RSPB Arne says a wildfire on a huge scale was narrowly averted thanks to a boat crew who spotted smoke and the fire service's quick response. 
Swanage sizzles in the heat but thunderstorms on their way The Met Office is warning that the current heatwave in Swanage is forecast to end with a bang - SEE HEATWAVE PHOTOS AND VIDEO. 
Controversial world first 5G network brings phone signal to Jurassic Coast A world first 5G network has been installed between Kimmeridge, Lulworth Cove, Durdle Door and Ringstead. but it's also sparked controversy. 
Torrential downpours and flooding delays Swanage commuters Unseasonal heavy rain caused roads and roundabouts on the route out of Purbeck to flood, causing frustration for those heading to work. 
Planning application submitted for 90 homes on Swanage Grammar site Residents can now view and comment on the plans for housing on the site of the old grammar school in Northbrook Road in Swanage. 
Residents fear for future of Studland wildlife meadow A meadow on the Glebe Estate that was gifted to the National Trust in the 1990s by an eminent local, may now be sold to developers. 
New lease of life for Swanage Town Council’s old greenhouse The old parks and garden depot that once supplied Swanage with its bedding plants is being turned into a community garden to promote wellbeing. 
New guillemot chicks at Durlston but other birds in decline Durlston Country Park in Swanage is having another successful guillemot breeding season but it's a different story for other seabirds. 
New bins give Swanage seafront a better look Shore Road in Swanage is being given a tidier appearance for the summer, as the old wheelie bins have been replaced with new smarter litter bins. 
New planning application for old Swanage Grammar School site Property developers say they are going to submit a new planning application for 90 homes on the site of the old grammar school in Northbrook Road. 
Marine police to help curb jet ski speed in Swanage Bay A new plan of action for Swanage and Studland Bays has been agreed to help reduce the number of jet ski incidents. 
Repairs underway to Swanage beach steps after landslide A popular path down to the beach at Sheps Hollow in Swanage Bay is being repaired 15 months after the incident. Spring clean for Swanage and Studland beaches The Great Dorset Beach Clean took place across the county, despite a weekend of high winds, grey skies and rain. 
New eco group Sustainable Wareham meets for first time The environmental group Sustainable Swanage has a new neighbour – Sustainable Wareham and the two have started to work together to tackle important issues. 
Seahorse sculpture unveiled in Studland amid plans to protect its habitat As moves progress to restore the seahorse’s natural environment in Studland Bay, a local artist has created an eye-catching seahorse sculpture. 
Great Dorset Beach Clean to go ahead in Swanage Despite being cancelled in 2020 due to Covid, the Great Dorset Beach Clean is back and will take place across 22 local beaches including Swanage and Studland. 
Gales up to 65mph cause damage in Swanage Forecast high winds caused disruption in Swanage as scaffolding, trees and phone wires were all toppled by the gusts. 
Fundraising appeal to restore Wareham Forest raises £45,000 Work to regenerate Wareham Forest from the devastation of last year’s fire is now underway, nearly a year since the blaze, following a successful fundraising appeal. 
Shops in Dorset urged to stop selling disposable barbecues A campaign calling for retailers in Swanage and across the county to remove disposable barbecues from their shelves has been launched by Litter Free Dorset. 
Pod of dolphins back at Durlston! Visitors, volunteers and staff at Durlston Country Park in Swanage have been treated to three consecutive days of dolphin sightings from the cliffs. 
Swanage’s temporary flood defences removed as future options progress The concrete blocks that form a temporary solution to Swanage’s seafront flooding over the winter months are due to be removed. 
Stellar year for Purbeck stargazers as survey shows light pollution reduction Stargazers across Purbeck contributed to a nationwide star count that suggested a drastic fall in light pollution during the coronavirus lockdown. 
Building of new affordable homes near Swanage has started Construction is underway on a controversial housing development that will provide 28 new affordable homes in Langton Matravers. 
Jurassic Coast fossil museum hosts Mary Anning conference An event to honour the legacy of Dorset fossil collector, Mary Anning has been organised by The Etches Collection in Kimmeridge near Swanage, 
Viewers gripped as Poole Harbour osprey returns to webcam nest The female osprey who has spent her summers in Poole Harbour unsuccessfully looking for a mate, has returned to try her luck for a fifth season. 
Cows to enjoy Studland vacation this summer The National Trust is to start grazing cattle in the sand dunes and some arty cow information boards have popped up across Studland Bay to let people know. 
Durdle Door owner calls for government to fund visitor education Lulworth Estate is urging people to sign a petition calling for the government to protect beauty spots as lockdown eases. 
High percentage of residents urge Dorset Council to get carbon neutral quicker The results of Dorset Council’s consultation on its climate and ecological emergency strategy show that many residents would like it to become carbon neutral by 2030 and not 2040. 
Barn owls up for adoption to help stem their decline in Dorset Residents are being offered the chance to adopt a barn owl to help protect the “enigmatic, majestic” birds - and experience a “moment with nature” through the Dorset Wildlife Trust’s ... 
Solar panel initiative launched for Swanage residents People in Swanage are being encouraged to boost their eco credentials by signing up to the town’s new solar panel project. 
Dorset National Park proposal would “enhance” Purbeck says CPRE The creation of a Dorset National Park would give a boost to protection of Purbeck’s countryside, the Campaign to Protect Rural England has said. 
Date of new eco festival in Purbeck announced Following 12 months of festival cancellations, the environmental group, Planet Purbeck is bucking the trend and launching a new eco festival in and around Swanage for September 2021. 
Plans to bring the beaver back to Purbeck The environmental group, Planet Purbeck has teamed up with the National Trust to host an open meeting to discuss the possibility of reintroducing beavers to Purbeck. Solar panels project set to launch in Swanage It’s hoped that Swanage’s green credentials are set to grow with the launch of a new solar panels scheme. 
Swanage seafront hit by large waves and flying sea foam Residents are being warned to stay well back from the seafront as large waves strike Swanage’s coastline - SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO 
Spectacular ice show makes up for no snow in Swanage Freezing temperatures and icy winds have produced an amazing display of icicles at locations in and around Swanage - WATCH VIDEO. 
Chance of overnight snow in Swanage Following two days of bitterly cold winds, the Met Office is now forecasting the possibility of light snow overnight in Swanage. 
Swanage Coastguard witness landslip as large rocks fall on beach While investigating reports of recent landslips on Swanage Beach, the coastguard team were nearby when they saw a further serious rock fall. 
Swanage stargazers urged to take part in star counting survey With light pollution an increasing environmental issue, residents are being asked to help assess the extent of the problem in Purbeck. 
“Enormous waves” and flooding over wet weekend in Purbeck Warnings to check tides and take care by the sea and near rivers in Purbeck, after people got into trouble at Lulworth, Portland and at East Holme. 
Swanage Downs consultation – more views required! A survey to find out people’s views about Swanage Downs has now received around 170 responses but Swanage Town Council would like more responses. 
Swanage webcams – ‘visit’ Swanage during lockdown The Covid pandemic means many aren't able to visit Swanage as normal but everyone can stay at home and see what’s going on via the webcams. 
Days Park playground and outdoor gym get a boost With indoor gyms closed, it’s timely that the outdoor gym at Days Park in Swanage is getting a facelift, alongside improvements to the children’s playground. 
Swanage Town Council launches plan to tackle climate change An Environment Policy Action Plan for the town has been formulated by Swanage Town Council and there's a meeting to have your say. 
Storm Christoph: Swanage set for heavy rain as warning issued Another good reason to stay at home as a spell of wet weather is forecast by the Met Office across Dorset - along with a risk of flooding. 
Membership drive by Dorset Wildlife Trust after year of loss With 2020 tarnished by Purbeck’s devastating Wareham Forest Fire, the Dorset Wildlife Trust is inviting new members to sign up in the new year for a discounted price. 
Warning after battery starts fire at Dorset Council depot Dorset Council is warning residents not to put batteries in bins after one caught fire at a council waste depot - SEE VIDEO. 
It’s a new dawn – here are some of 2020’s most stunning Swanage sunrises 2021 is here - and a new and hopefully brighter dawn is rising over Swanage, Dorset and the rest of the world. 
Landslip warning along Swanage coastline following wet weather Swanage Coastguard is asking walkers to take care around the coastline due to the current risk of landslips. 
First the wind, now snow and ice weather warnings for Dorset As the county’s roads are cleared of fallen trees blown over by Storm Bella, the gritting lorries are out in preparation for the arrival of snow and ice. 
Starling murmuration at Studland – watch the spectacular show! The starlings can be spotted in Studland again this winter and they are putting on an amazing display, as they swoop and dive in unison. 
Big boost for Purbeck’s heathland as it gets large government grant Heathland across Purbeck is set for a regeneration drive after Dorset secured more than three quarters of a million pounds in government funding. 
Ancient ‘Sea Dragon’ discovered on the Purbeck coastline A Dorset fossil hunter has found the remains of a new type of prehistoric sea dragon on a Purbeck beach. 
Sea swimmers warned to “respect the water” this winter Following the drowning of a man in Studland Bay and the sudden increased popularity of swimming in the sea this year, the RNLI is warning of the dangers of cold ... 
Coats for kids – help keep Swanage’s children warm over winter Swanage residents are being asked to go through their cupboards and donate children’s winter coats and warm pyjamas to help families who are struggling at the end of a tough ... 
Investing for the future – sponsor an oak tree avenue in Swanage Sustainable Swanage is offering the opportunity to contribute towards tree planting along the High Street - possibly as a gift for Christmas. 
Swanage children to get new playground for Christmas! Plans for a completely refurbished play area with new equipment at the Recreation Ground in Swanage are in full swing. 
Man dangerously speeding on Wareham’s River Frome, dealt with under new law A 30 year old man from Hertfordshire, causing danger to other water users in a motor boat has received a community resolution order. 
Studland seahorses up for adoption to help Dorset’s wildlife this Christmas The Dorset Wildlife Trust is urging people to help the local wildlife this Christmas by adopting a Studland seahorse or even a Brownsea Island red squirrel. 
Rainbow message of hope illuminates Swanage The sky over Swanage was lit up for a few minutes by the most astonishing and vivid double rainbow that had residents and visitors grappling to find a camera. 
Anger as Swanage outdoor education sector says it’s been left high and dry A campaign to draw the attention of the government to the plight of the outdoor industry in Dorset caused by coronavirus, has been launched at Old Harry Rocks. Permanent flood defences proposed to transform Swanage seafront Residents are to be consulted on plans to install permanent sea defences in Swanage, alongside the pedestrianisation of parts of the seafront. 
Helping tourism become more sustainable in Swanage Anyone who's interested in making tourism more environmentally friendly is invited to come to a Sustainable Swanage Zoom meeting to discuss ways of doing things better. 
Traffic lights allow rebuilding of wall in Swanage to get the go ahead Work to repair a dry stone wall that threatens to collapse, is to start in November 2020 and temporary traffic lights will be installed. 
Durlston’s high standards awarded with international Green Flag Award for 2020 In a challenging year, Durlston Country Park in Swanage has been recognised by the Green Flag Award scheme for providing one of the world's best country parks. 
Rare shrimps found spreading along Dorset’s coast amid changing climate A rare species of shrimp that was first spotted in UK waters at Swanage, has now been seen further round the Jurassic Coast. 
Horses in Studland caught by police after bid to hoof it! Missing horses were safely reunited with their owners after escaping from their field in Studland. 
Wareham Forest fundraising appeal close to £5k as it gets artistic boost Fundraisers have raised nearly £5,000 in an effort to restore Wareham Forest after horrific fires destroyed the woodland - and now the appeal has received support from local artists. 
‘Bin Your Butt’ to keep Swanage Beach free of cigarette litter Campaigners are urging smokers to dispose of their cigarette butts properly and not fill towns like Swanage with unwanted smoking related litter. 
Hunt to find fly-tipper of “disgusting” rotting meat dumped in Purbeck Council enforcement officers are searching for the culprit, who fly-tipped bags full of meat in the Purbeck area. 
Swanage to get a new park as designs revealed to boost wildlife Plans for a wildlife-friendly mini or ‘pocket park’ at Rabling Green in Swanage are coming closer to fruition. 
Dogs on Swanage Beach – survey findings published Results include whether dogs should be allowed on Swanage’s Main Beach in the summer and if they should be allowed off the lead on the beach in winter. 
Rush to the finish – Oly completes 96 mile Jurassic Coast swim With extraordinary determination, anti-plastic pollution campaigner Oly Rush arrived in Studland, completing his challenge to swim the Jurassic Coast - SEE PHOTOS AND VIDEO. 
Kids and cows to rejuvenate Studland’s sand dunes Rare species that rely on the sand dunes in Studland for their habitat are being threatened as vegetation takes over but now there’s a bold plan to restore the landscape. 
A bank holiday plea for no BBQs in the Purbeck countryside Litter Free Dorset has released a video warning that barbecues burn more than bangers, following the devastating fire in Wareham Forest this year. 
Long traffic delays as tree falls across road Residents and visitors heading in and out of Swanage faced long delays after a large tree partially blocked the A351 at Sandford. 
Weather warning for Swanage as Storm Francis rolls in The Met Office has issued a yellow weather warning for Dorset as wind speeds up to 60 mph are expected to hit coastal areas including Swanage. 
Human chain saves man swept out to sea at Durdle Door With gales and powerful tidal surges forecast along the Dorset coast, including Swanage and Studland Bay, people are being warned to stay away from the sea - WATCH VIDEO. 
Give us a kiss, Danny! 15 year old takes stunning dolphin photo The dolphin, affectionately known locally as Danny and a regular visitor to Swanage, has been captured on film in a remarkable image. 
Lockdown baby barn owls are a breeding success in Dorset To the delight of wildlife enthusiasts, baby barn owls have been discovered across Dorset, following the success of a barn owl breeding scheme. 
Studland boat party scrapped after seahorse protest Conservationists relieved after Dorset Cruises cancels boat party and jet ski soirée among the seahorse breeding ground in Studland Bay. 
The “vast scar” of Wareham Forest fire revealed Drone pictures of scorched heathland in Wareham Forest have been released to warn of the extensive damage that can be caused by disposable barbecues. 
Durlston guillemot chicks jump off cliff The guillemot chicks at Durlston Country Park are now bravely taking a leap of faith off the cliff ledge and into the sea - WATCH THE LATEST FILM. 
“Appalling” mess left by Studland campers The rubbish dumped by people camping overnight in Studland is “appalling and simply not acceptable” says Purbeck Police. 
Ron the Seal spotted in Swanage Bay Back to his old antics playing with the buoys and surfing the waves, Ron the Seal has been filmed playing in Swanage Bay. 
Tortoise turns up nearly a year after disappearance A Swanage family has been surprised and delighted after finding their missing tortoise, that had been on the run since last July. 
First green shoots of recovery after fire “There is always hope” says Wareham Fire Station as it posts a photo of the first green shoots appearing after the Wareham Forest fire. 
Breaking egg news – first Durlston guillemot chick has hatched! Captured on video, the first guillemot chick at Durlston Country Park is filmed being preened by its parent. Barbecue or camp fire likely cause of Wareham Forest fire Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue says it believes that the fire at Wareham Forest was caused by people having a barbecue or campfire. 
Wildlife rescued as huge areas of Wareham Forest are scorched The true extent of the devastation of Wareham Forest fire is seen, as wildlife is rescued and Swanage Fire crew play a central role - SEE VIDEO AND PHOTOS 
Swanage Beach to be allowed to go natural Without the usual summer holiday season underway, seaweed on Swanage beach won’t get removed as a matter of course. 
Swanage’s home recycling centre is to reopen! Dorset Council says that the tip in Prospect Way is to reopen for the disposal of waste but there will be restrictions. 
Purbeck birds caught on camera Fascinating footage of the guillemots at Durlston in Swanage and an osprey over at Poole Harbour has been captured on film - SEE VIDEO AND WEBCAM 
Don’t forget – Garden bin collections start this week! With the resumption of garden waste collections in Swanage this week, residents are being reminded to put their bin out for collection. 
Good news – garden waste collections are back! Dorset Council says it’s now in a position to resume garden waste kerbside collections starting from Monday 27th April 2020. 
Dolphins join in Swanage Lifeboat rescue of fishing vessel With a fishing vessel drifting out at sea, the Swanage Lifeboat raced to its aid and was then joined by a pod of dolphins - see video. 
Dog owners warned to beware of adders at Durlston Several sightings during the warm weather of the UK's only venomous snake, means dogs could be at risk of getting bitten - see video. 
Don’t let bonfires cause heated rows with neighbours, warns council With the Swanage tip closed this weekend, Dorset Council is appealing to gardeners not to annoy their neighbours by lighting bonfires. 
Sahara mirage appears in football club car park Swanage Town and Herston football club’s car park has been turned into a desert by council workers removing sand from Shore Road. 
New move to help save Studland’s seahorses Saving Studland’s seahorses moved one step closer after Natural England published new conservation advice to protect the bay’s species and habitat. 
Shore Road turns into beach gardens! A north-easterly gale has blown sand from the beach, making the Swanage seafront road impassable except by foot or camel! 
Latest photos show ‘severe’ Studland landslips Further clifftop areas in Studland are now roped off due to new landslips, caused by the recent storms. 
Mature trees on the Downs to get the chop Work to cut down eight mature trees that border the Downs and Seymer Road is to start on Monday. 
Full rainbow over the bay to welcome in March Sunshine and hail created an amazing full rainbow over Swanage Bay, this afternoon. 
Burlington Chine beach huts damaged by new landslides Swanage Coastguard has taped off access to beach huts after further cliff landslides at Burlington Chine overnight. 
Warning of ferry disruption due to Storm Jorge With heavy rain and strong gales forecast for the weekend, there's warnings of disruption to the Sandbanks Ferry service. 
Sheps Hollow steps officially closed Extensive cliff erosion in Swanage Bay has forced the official closure of the steps at Sheps Hollow. 
Dennis – Proves less of a menace for Swanage Storm Dennis caused less disruption than expected , in Swanage, although the gale force winds did create some impressive waves. 
Swanage braces itself for Storm Dennis as flood alert issued Flooding is possible this weekend in Swanage as the Met Office issues yellow weather warnings ahead of Storm Dennis’s arrival. 
Storm Ciara batters the Swanage coastline The Sandbanks ferry was suspended as Storm Ciara brought winds up to 70 giving the Swanage coastline a battering. 
Tree-mendous giveaway to boost the environment Over 1,500 trees have been given away free to local people as part of a campaign by Sustainable Swanage.