Environment & weather
The latest news about the environment and the weather covering storms, landslips, the coast and the countryside in Swanage and Purbeck.
Storm Chandra reveals 400 year old ship timbers at Studland The remarkable discovery of part of a shipwreck, believed to be from the 17th Century, has been found buried in the sand at Studland Bay in Dorset, following winter storms 
Swanage coastguard warns of hazards as coast takes ‘battering’ Following three storms in the first month of 2026 and the continued pounding of the sea along the Purbeck coastline in Dorset, the Swanage coastguard has issued a warning 
New film about Kimmeridge’s Jurassic monster to be shown in Swanage A behind the scenes documentary about the rescue of the fossilised skull of a Jurassic sea creature nicknamed the Sea Rex, is to be screened in Swanage, Dorset, to help ... 
Future of North Swanage’s coastline to be discussed at The Mowlem Long term plans for adapting and managing North Swanage in the face of coastal change, are being drawn up and residents are being invited to find out more at a ... 
Storm Chandra flooding leaves much of Purbeck cut off Only days after Storm Ingrid closed part of Swanage’s seafront due to flying debris, Storm Chandra blew in and brought a deluge of rain, causing severe flooding to routes out ... 
Rubbish year for plastic pollution at Chapman’s Pool An environmental charity Project Planet Earth, has released data about the amount of plastic and rubbish collected at Chapman’s Pool near Worth Matravers, Dorset, in 2025 
Chris Packham to make guest appearance at Wareham festival Wildlife warrior and TV presenter Chris Packham, along with Megan McCubbin, is to headline a festival at Careys Secret Garden near Wareham in Dorset, which explores wildlife and human migration 
More recruits wanted for new Purbeck conservation youth group Teenagers interested in conservation and improving the natural environment are being offered the chance to join a newly launched youth group in Purbeck, Dorset 
High hopes for fruitful Purbeck Cider wassail The ancient tradition of wassailing has been held at the home of Purbeck Cider, near Corfe Castle in Dorset, to bless its orchards and encourage the trees to fruit well 
Surge in sightings at Purbeck bird hide as new record is set A bird hide near Arne in Dorset has had a remarkable year of sightings, setting a new record for the highest number of different species spotted in one year 
Middle Beach coastal erosion reveals old rubbish tip Decades of dumped waste and rubble at Middle Beach in Studland, Dorset, is now being exposed after the coastal defences were removed and the sandy cliffs have started to erode 
Purbeck wildlife celebrate nut and berry bonanza this winter Birds and animals have been feasting on a bumper crop of nuts and berries across Purbeck heath and woodland in Dorset, in a phenomenon which occurs about once every four ... 
Wareham farmer steps in as salmon numbers flounder The number of young Atlantic salmon in Dorset's River Frome has fallen by 70 percent in 20 years, but now Wareham farmer Ian Baggs is hoping to slow the dramatic ... 
Technical reports into Swanage seafront stabilisation published In response to public demand, engineering reports monitoring the ground movement of a subsiding section of Swanage’s seafront have been released, along with a document detailing the best method to ... 
Beach walks to learn more about Swanage cliff erosion There’s an opportunity to find out why and how the cliffs along the shoreline in Swanage, Dorset, are collapsing, by coming along to a winter walk and talk hosted by ... 
Corfe Castle podcasters up for national archaeology award Podcasting Purbeck archaeologists Derek Pitman and Lawrence Shaw are in the running to win a national award for their YouTube channel, Career In Ruins 
Nature-led fix aims to curb Swanage flood risk New earth bunds, scrapes and leaky dams have been popping up in the Purbeck countryside as part of a scheme to reduce the flooding risk along the Swan Brook, which ... 
Rare and endangered pine marten caught on camera in Studland A wildlife cam set up to monitor beavers has recorded the first sighting of a pine marten in Studland, Dorset, in more than a century - WATCH VIDEO 
Swanage Green Seafront survey results published In order to stabilise a subsiding section of the Swanage seafront in Dorset, more people say they prefer the £6.5 million new enhanced option to save the area from collapse, ... 
Sustainable Wareham joins the Repair Cafe revolution Following early success of the Swanage and Purbeck Repair Cafe after its relaunch, a new repair, refresh and reuse event has been organised to take place in Wareham, Dorset 
Purbeck Crew’s life saving rafts give barn owls a second chance Volunteer carpenters for the National Trust in Purbeck have been hard at work on a life saving mission - to stop majestic barn owls drowning in farm troughs. 
RSPB Arne celebrates 60th birthday with bird festival Special guest BBC Springwatch presenter Jack Baddams joined bird lovers at RSPB Arne for the sanctuary’s Dorset Bird festival to help mark its diamond anniversary 
National Trust releases land for social rent homes in Langton Matravers A long held ambition to provide genuinely affordable homes for local families in Langton Matravers in Dorset is finally moving forward after the National Trust agreed to provide a parcel ... 
Swanage residents air views on plans for new housing In an attempt to meet government targets on building new homes, Dorset Council has produced a draft Local Plan allocating land for development but it’s proving controversial especially in environmentally ... 
Swanage flood defence blocks return as permanent plans delayed Despite the promise of construction of permanent flood defences for Swanage in Dorset starting in September 2025, the town centre will once again have to rely on the temporary fix ... 
Purbeck eco homes open their doors to help others save energy Leading by example, Purbeck home owners who have invested in energy efficient measures to save money on their bills and reduce their carbon footprint, are welcoming others to come and ... 
Attenborough’s final Studland shoot sparks ocean action event Sir David Attenborough’s last ever location shot, filmed at Studland and Old Harry rocks in Dorset, for the documentary Ocean, will be used as a call to action by Planet ... 
Sea defences to be removed from Studland’s Middle Beach After years of controversy, work is to start to clear Middle Beach in Studland of the old man-made sea defences which were put in place to slow coastal erosion and ... 
Architect’s plans unveiled for affordable housing in Swanage A proposed affordable housing development in Swanage, Dorset - aimed at providing social rent homes for keyworkers with a strong connection to the town - attracted significant interest at a ... 
Views sought on building social rent housing in Swanage A consultation is being held to find out what local residents think of a proposed scheme to build affordable homes for keyworkers with a strong connection to Swanage in Dorset 
Special formula milk pours into Monkey World after urgent plea A birthday appeal to keep an orphaned orangutan in special formula milk for the next year has been wildly successful - with cans of the expensive powder now arriving daily ... 
Swanage bioblitz to discover what’s in our sea A survey of what’s in and around Swanage Bay in Dorset, is taking place as part of an action plan to increase awareness of our marine life and improve it ... 
Studland beaver swims to Swanage and makes home at toilet block A wild beaver released in Studland in Dorset, made an extraordinary journey - presumably by sea - to the nearby town of Swanage, choosing to settle in a small stream ... 
Swanage volunteer helps save rare reptiles after heath fire devastation Among the scorched landscape, teams have been rescuing as much of the wildlife as they can, following heath fires that were deliberately started in Purbeck and Wimborne in Dorset 
Dorset’s first white-tailed eagle chick for 240 years caught on film It’s been confirmed that a pair of white-tailed eagles, regularly spotted flying over Wareham Channel, Arne, Purbeck heathland, and Poole Harbour, have successfully produced a chick and it’s the first ... 
Swanage’s Sunshine Walk to reopen after major wall collapse Work to repair a historic wall and popular footpath into Swanage in Dorset, which was destroyed in a landslip due to building work, has finally been completed ten months after ... 
Survey aims to shed light on state of glow worms in Purbeck Falling numbers of one of England’s threatened insects, the enigmatic glow worm, seem to have been halted in Purbeck in Dorset, as steps are being taken to protect their natural ... 
Ban on wild camping and lighting fires comes into force at Studland Studland has finally been added to the list of locations in Dorset to have a legally enforceable ban on overnight camping and the lighting of fires including barbecues 
Dive in to a new self guided snorkel adventure at Studland Life under the sea at Studland in Dorset is about to become a lot more accessible with a new kayak and snorkelling experience introduced for summer visitors by local watersports ... 
Student finds new mini mammal from age of dinosaurs at Durlston A new species of mammal the size of a shrew which lived alongside dinosaurs in Purbeck during the Cretaceous era has just been discovered at Durlston Bay in Swanage, Dorset 
More fossilised remains of Kimmeridge’s Sea Rex rescued Fossil collector Steve Etches has returned to the cliff face near Kimmeridge in Dorset to save more of the world famous marine reptile, affectionately called the Sea Rex, which would ... 
Residents denied voice on controversial Dorset tip booking system A move by a Swanage councillor to allow the Liberal Democrat controlled Dorset Council administration to save face over its unpopular policy to introduce a booking system at its household ... 
Restoration of Brownsea ferry from Sandbanks gets planning approval A 100 year old ferry route to Brownsea Island - the most convenient for Purbeck residents - is to be reinstated after planning permission was granted to rebuild the jetty ... 
Chance for forest bathing on Brownsea Island As an island in the middle of Poole Harbour in Dorset, when it comes to bathing on Brownsea Island, it's mainly in the sea but now there’s an opportunity to ... 
Swanage Pier making waves as bucket list dive site A vibrant world of life under Swanage Pier is becoming more intense as sea temperatures warm up. 
Revolt against booking a trip to the tip grows across Dorset Many Swanage and Wareham residents are calling for Dorset Council to scrap its controversial decision to make them book a 30 minute slot online before visiting their local household recycling ... 
Talking rubbish to help Swanage win war on waste Environment group Sustainable Swanage is organising a rubbish event for residents to learn more about what happens to household waste after it is collected from the kerbside 
Midsummer murmurs at Square and Compass over future of Woodhenge Purbeck’s most unusual landmark is about to celebrate its 10th anniversary - but the long term future of Woodhenge in Worth Matravers, Dorset, is now in doubt as it has ... 
‘Book before you visit’ system to be brought in at Swanage tip Swanage residents will soon have to book a slot before visiting the household recycling centre or tip, as it’s often known, due to a new scheme to be introduced by ... 
Purbeck coast path improvements finally completed A major project to create a national trail around the entire coast of England to be called the King Charles III England Coast Path, took a step closer with the ... 
Purbeck ospreys do the double to defy the odds Summer dates have been announced for tours to view the extraordinary ospreys of Purbeck after they hatched four chicks for the second year in a row - a one in ... 
Views flood in on stabilisation of Swanage seafront scheme Residents, visitors and anyone who cares about the future of Swanage in Dorset have been giving their feedback on plans to save parts of the seafront from collapse and enhance ... 
New plans for Harrow House site fail to increase affordable housing Despite submitting amended plans for a new housing estate on the former Harrow House school site in Swanage, Dorset, the property developer has chosen not to increase the provision of ... 
North Swanage to trial ways to adapt property to coastal change The delivery of a new scheme to better prepare homes, businesses and beach huts in North Swanage in Dorset, for future coastal erosion has been launched 
Ron the Seal photo bombs MPs beach clean campaign at Durdle Door Four Dorset MPs including South Dorset’s Lloyd Hatton were at Durdle Door on the Purbeck coastline to publicise their campaign to clean up our beaches and coastline, when they were ... 
New hospital opens for injured Purbeck hedgehogs Sick and starving hedgehogs from across Purbeck now have a greater chance of survival after a dedicated hospital opened its doors just 10 miles from Wareham. 
New plans for Swanage seafront and Shore Road unveiled With parts of the seafront in Swanage, Dorset, subsiding due to ground slippage, residents are to be consulted on new proposals for saving the area from collapse and enhancing the ... 
Nature and wildlife fair returns to Wareham for third year Giving people a chance to meet and chat to Purbeck environmental organisations all in one place, the Sustainable Wareham Nature and Wildlife Fair is back by popular demand 
Worth Matravers landmark removed due to safety fears The familiar sight of the towering grain silo at Worth Matravers in Dorset, has gone, after a structural engineer deemed it unsafe and said the roof panels were in danger ... 
Purbeck puffins in danger of extinction An attempt to use cameras to find out why puffins along the Purbeck Coast in Dorset are failing to breed has proved inconclusive, meaning a further decline in numbers is ... 
Risk of wildfires increases across Purbeck due to low rainfall An Amber wildfire alert is to remain in place across Purbeck and Dorset as unseasonally low rainfall continues to increase the risk of wildfires due to dry conditions 
Lookout for new attraction on Brownsea Island For the first time in decades, a stunning new building with panoramic views of Poole Harbour has been constructed on Brownsea Island in Dorset - WATCH VIDEO 
Dorset street lighting policy set to switch to warm white LEDs Following complaints from residents, particularly in Swanage, about new LED street lighting being too bright white, Dorset Council is now planning to install less dazzling lights in future, but it ... 
New canine code to protect Studland’s ground nesting birds As rare ground nesting birds arrive in Purbeck, new signs are going up on the dunes and heathlands in Studland, Dorset, asking owners to keep their dogs on short leads ... 
Media descend on Studland for wild beaver release Four beavers have been released into the wild at Studland in Dorset under the gaze of the UK’s media, just days after receiving the official licence from the government - ... 
Studland finally gets its wild beaver licence After years of delays, the government has at last granted a licence to release beavers into the wild in Studland in Dorset 
Race is on to plant 10,000 trees in a month on Purbeck farm An ambitious project to plant 10,000 trees and create more than a mile of new hedges in Purbeck is underway with the aim of completing the scheme by the end ... 
Legal ban on barbecues and wild camping proposed for Studland Studland is set to be included in plans for a legally enforceable ban on antisocial behaviour in Dorset, which includes lighting disposable barbecues on heathland, and camping illegally on beaches 
Worth Matravers bee expert looks to end Purbeck honey drought Beekeepers in Purbeck are praying for a glorious summer for the first time in three years - because bees are missing the sun even more than the residents 
Bats hunker down in Studland’s wartime bunkers New defences have been added to Fort Henry and other historic wartime bunkers in Studland - not to safeguard the village, but to protect its rarest residents. 
Work underway to restore habitat for Purbeck birds Strange patches of bare soil are appearing across fields in Purbeck in Dorset, and while it may look a bit odd, it’s all about providing better nesting, roosting and foraging ... 
Oh, deer – zoo law spells end to Farmer Palmer’s Purbeck herd A much loved deer feeding experience at Farmer Palmer’s farm park near Wareham in Dorset is to close after strict enforcement of zoo licensing laws. 
Archaelogists dig up Roman ‘Tupperware’ at Arne A leading historian says there's evidence to suggest that Purbeck in Dorset was once the centre of Britain’s pottery industry, churning out thousands of pots which conquered the Roman Empire 
Chance to comment on Studland’s new eco moorings The scheme to persuade boat owners to use eco moorings rather than dropping anchor among the seagrass in Studland Bay in Dorset was expanded in 2024, and now locals are ... 
New BBC Winterwatch puts Purbeck back in TV spotlight In what is likely to be a final visit, BBC cameras will be returning to RSPB Arne in Dorset for the TV programme Winterwatch, to once again highlight the amazing ... 
No kidding, Langton goats go mad for Christmas trees An adventure farm in Langton Matravers near Swanage in Dorset, is playing its part in disposing of Swanage’s discarded Christmas trees - by feeding them to its goats 
Rubbish event in Wareham gets financial backing The success of a pilot scheme to recycle more unusual items like toothbrushes, corks, blister packs and cables in Wareham, Dorset, has been rewarded with a £1,200 grant, guaranteeing future ... 
Swanage photographer pledges to plant trees to help ‘fragile planet’ An award-winning photographer from Swanage in Dorset is passing on his love of nature by planting a tree for every job he undertakes 
Five rare breed ponies join the herd at Studland Adding to the already established seven Exmoor and eight Dartmoor ponies grazing on Studland heathland in Dorset, are five new Exmoor ponies 
Bronze Age wooden spade dug up at Arne is preserved A stunning find more than 3,000 years old, is now undergoing carefully conservation after being discovered at RSPB Arne in Dorset, during work to create a new wetland visitor attraction 
Regulator allows Wessex Water to increase customers’ bills Water bills across the Wessex Water region which includes Swanage and Purbeck are to go up by 21 percent over the next five years but in return, the company has ... 
Thousands to be pumped into Swanage river improvement A grant has been awarded to reduce the risk of flooding along the Swan Brook stream between Harman’s Cross, Langton Matravers and Swanage in Dorset by introducing natural measures to ... 
Christmas fair escapes storm at Swanage garden project Now established as an annual event, the Christmas fair at the Greenage Community Garden in Swanage, managed to take place just before Storm Darragh swept across Dorset 
Storm Darragh warning postpones Swanage xmas events In the face of a Yellow warning for wind which could see gusts of up to 70 mph along the Dorset Coast, the Swanage Christmas Market and the switch-on of ... 
Swanage’s neglected ‘Cinderella’ stream needs rescuing An attempt to restore life back into the Swanage river the Swan Brook, is to be made with the help of local residents and organisations. 
North Swanage gets its Sheps Steps reinstated The much cherished steps down to the beach at the north end of Swanage Bay are being repaired with government cash after they were swept away by winter storms 
Swanage flooded with art as rain pours down Eye-catching artwork to make grey flood barrier blocks more obvious for the visually impaired and to give a splash of colour to Swanage’s seafront in Dorset, is back for a ... 
Free tickets quickly snapped up for open day on Brownsea While Brownsea Island in Dorset is part of Studland Parish, it’s rarely regarded as part of Purbeck, so to strengthen community links, local residents were invited to an open day ... 
Chance to recycle more than the usual rubbish in Wareham Guaranteeing that your rubbish won’t end up in landfill or an incinerator, eco group Sustainable Wareham is running a trial event for residents to recycle more unusual items like toothbrushes, ... 
Dorset’s first ever fungi festival to take place in Purbeck The secret world of fungi, from the supernatural links to its potential for curing modern diseases, will be the subject of a festival first near Wareham in Dorset 
Purbeck kids to get chance to benefit more from nature Statistics revealing that many children in Purbeck rarely visit the beach or countryside, has shocked local outdoor organisations into giving every young person the opportunity to regularly experience their natural ... 
Wreck detectives solve mystery of ship sunk near Swanage Divers from Bournemouth University have uncovered evidence which finally reveals the identity of a Victorian ship wrecked off the coast near Swanage in Dorset more than 120 years ago 
Corfe Castle protest as social housing is put up for sale Residents in Corfe Castle in Dorset are leading a protest against housing association homes being sold off on the open market, when local people are desperate for affordable housing 
First test for Swanage sea defence as storm sweeps in Strong winds, torrential rain and overtopping waves fortunately failed to cause flooding in Swanage, however debris was left to litter part of the seafront 
Historic Swanage wall and footpath destroyed in landslip Following major excavation work on a controversial Swanage building site in Dorset, a six foot high drystone wall has collapsed, demolishing a footpath and bursting a water main 
First Studland baby beaver born at Little Sea for 400 years The formal announcement of a new arrival at Studland in Dorset was made at the Planet Purbeck Festival in Swanage to the delight of the audience 
Efforts redoubled to prevent winter flooding in Swanage Swanage’s temporary flood prevention barriers have been reconfigured for winter 2024 in an attempt to stop the sea tossing aside the concrete blocks as it did in 2023 
Brownsea Island goes red squirrel nuts over autumn With access to Brownsea Island in Dorset, disrupted over the past few years by the Covid pandemic and bird flu, visitor events are now back in full swing with its ... 
Purbeck eco homes open their doors to inspire others Homes where ordinary families have taken steps to lead a greener lifestyle, are being opened to visitors in Swanage, Langton Matravers and Wareham. 
Bat detectors installed at Winspit Quarry The combined forces of technology and dedicated volunteers are being deployed to eavesdrop on the after-dark activity of bats at Winspit Quarry caves in Dorset. 
Sustainable Swanage issues call to join the repair revolution A man who turned his life around with his self-taught passion for furniture restoration is to speak at a community event in Swanage, Dorset, in the hope of inspiring others ... 
New footpath creates perfect Worth Matravers pub walk There’s a new walk to experience with stunning views of the Purbeck coastline and best of all, it ends at the much loved Square and Compass pub at Worth Matravers ... 
Planet Purbeck promises not one, but two wild weekends in Swanage! Putting the spotlight on environmental issues, the community organisation Planet Purbeck is offering free tickets to two events in Swanage - one focusing on our sea and the other on ... 
Wareham boy finds rare fossilised mammal tooth The extraordinary fossil find by a seven year old boy from Wareham in Dorset is helping the Natural History Museum shed light on a long extinct predator from the dawn ... 
Surprising success story for Studland butterflies Two species of butterfly are bucking the trend of decline in the UK by dramatically increasing their numbers on Studland Heath in Dorset - and it's partly thanks to ants! 
Studland starts to plan for more flooding and coastal erosion Much of Studland in Dorset, owned by the National Trust, is expected to be ravaged by flooding and coastal erosion over the next 50 years. 
National Trust’s £100,000 plea to save Corfe Castle Local residents and visitors are being asked to raise £100,000 to help repair the walls of Corfe Castle in Dorset, which have been damaged by extreme weather. 
Bug’s life revealed on Swanage Downs One of Swanage’s most overlooked beauty spots got its day in the sun when residents were invited to explore the secret lives of its local minibeasts. 
Jenny D tug nears end of mission to protect Studland Bay Work costing £10 million is nearing completion, to help prevent the Dorset coastline from Studland to Highcliffe from flooding. 
Medieval cargo of Purbeck stone is raised from Studland Bay Purbeck stone grave slabs dating back 750 years are to go on display after being raised from a medieval shipwreck within sight of Old Harry. 
Plastic bottle waste from one Purbeck home pops up as tree A year’s worth of plastic bottles from just one household has been used to create a sculpture for Purbeck Art Weeks to highlight just how big the problem is. 
Seahorse sculpture points out loss of Studland seagrass Drawing attention to the damage done to the endangered seahorse’s habitat at Studland, an artist from Church Knowle in Dorset has created a giant seahorse installation. 
Flying the Blue Flag for Swanage again Swanage Main Beach in Dorset has been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag, alongside the Seaside Award, for a 24th consecutive year in recognition of the bay’s excellent sea water quality. 
Northern Lights shine over Swanage in rare event: Best photos In a spectacular show of pink and green, the Northern Lights were able to be seen by the eagle eyed and through a camera lens as far south as Swanage ... 
Fear of Purbeck becoming ‘nature theme park’ revealed in new report While improving Purbeck’s natural environment is widely supported, a new report shows many are concerned this could be at the expense of local jobs and the chance to live in ... 
May Bank Holiday picnic for Herston community to boost wellbeing With wellbeing in mind, local residents are being invited to get outdoors and come along to Herston Community Field in Swanage for a Bank Holiday picnic. 
Plea not to treat Purbeck heathland pigs as pets With the end of winter, woolly pigs have again been put out to roam across part of the Purbeck heathland but there’s a warning for people not to feed or ... 
Toby’s two horse power solution for Purbeck woodland An ancient tradition is being kept alive in an 800 year old woodland in Langton Matravers near Swanage in Dorset, to make sure it is in best health for the ... 
Sheps Steps top priority after North Swanage residents voice concern Replacing the steps down to the beach at Sheps Hollow in Swanage, which were swept away by storms, has emerged as a top short term priority. 
Spotlight on nature at Wareham wildlife fair Environmental groups and enthusiasts are joining together to provide information about the nature and wildlife in and around Wareham in Dorset, including ospreys. 
Film footage to help save Purbeck puffins from extinction Puffins have returned to Dancing Ledge in Dorset for 2024 but this year, cameras have been installed on the nearby cliffs to find out why the much loved birds are ... 
Environment group reveals its top spots for snorkelling in Dorset Keen to highlight the beauty beneath the sea in Dorset, environment group Planet Purbeck has compiled a list of its favourite snorkelling sites. 
Swanage councillors set to pass Motion for the Ocean With the sea being one of Swanage’s most valuable assets, the town council is looking to ensure all its future decisions promote an improvement in the health of our ocean ... 
Happy hour again as house martins get new nests in Purbeck With spring just around the corner, families in Wareham are getting ready to give some flying visitors from Africa brand new homes to move into. 
Work starts on new bogs for Studland While spiders in bogs are not always welcome, there’s hope that the restoration of the peatland habitat in Studland, Dorset will see the widespread return of the rare raft spider. 
Seachange in policy means new plan for Swanage seaweed After 30 years, the local farmer who removed excess seaweed from Swanage Beach during the summer season is retiring and it’s causing a dilemma for the town council. 
Purbeck pupils fix up new homes for hedgehogs Hedgehogs waking up from hibernation are in for a treat at Sandford St Martin's School, where pupils are making homes to keep them safe, warm and well fed. 
Purbeck’s human fish Oly Rush plans new world record swim Purbeck waste warrior Oly Rush is ready to push his body to the limit in a 60 hour, world record setting swim - to bring global attention to the state ... 
Cancer charity creates new sanctuary garden for Swanage Work has begun to landscape a forgotten corner of Prince Albert Gardens in Swanage, Dorset, funded by a legacy left to Purbeck cancer charity Cancare. 
Beavers in Studland due to likely unlawful release Evidence has been discovered indicating that Studland in Dorset has been ‘beaver bombed’ - the intentional and unsanctioned release of beavers into the wild, in defiance of government policy. 
Purbeck storm damage under spotlight as BBC Winterwatch returns BBC’s Winterwatch team is back broadcasting live from RSPB Arne in Dorset, featuring the destruction caused by the worst winter storms in years. 
Gull friends needed for Swanage bird survey Volunteers from Swanage and across Purbeck are being sought to help carry out a winter survey of the number of gulls, commonly called seagulls, amid fears that numbers are in ... 
Corfe River bursts its banks causing flood chaos A deluge of rain left roads flooded and commuters stranded across Purbeck with the worst of the delays at Corfe Castle in Dorset - WATCH VIDEOS 
BBC returns to RSPB Arne for live Winterwatch shows A team of 60 camera crew, engineers and producers from the BBC are heading back to RSPB Arne near Wareham in Dorset for a week in January 2024 to broadcast ... 
Purbeck’s deadly Sea Rex to go on display at Kimmeridge museum The day after Sir David Attenborough tells the world about the most dangerous creature ever to swim along the Jurassic Coast, visitors to The Etches Collection in Kimmeridge, Dorset will ... 
Worth Matravers church roof fund hits target in time for Christmas The perfect Christmas present is about to be delivered to Saint Nick in Worth Matravers - news that a £600,000 appeal for the church in his name has been reached. 
Affordable housing consultation to take place in Swanage With plans progressing to provide genuinely affordable rental properties for local people in Swanage in Dorset, there’s to be a consultation for those who want to find out more. 
New attempt to make Swanage flood defences more resilient The temporary flood barrier made up of concrete blocks along Swanage’s seafront in Dorset is to be partly redesigned following the devastation caused by Storm Ciarán. 
Swanage seafront survey result gives council splitting headache The results of the public consultation on controversial multi million pound plans to stabilise the eroding cliff along the seafront in Swanage in Dorset have been published. 
Plans for growth at Swanage community garden Going from strength to strength, the Greengage community project in Swanage, Dorset is opening its greenhouse doors for its Christmas fair. 
Dormice disappear from Purbeck as new survey reveals shock results One of Britain’s most iconic mammals, the hazel dormouse, has all but disappeared from Purbeck in Dorset. 
Durlston photo exhibition unwraps thorny question of rewilding A challenging exhibition on rewilding has just opened at Durlston Country Park - where the idea has already been practised for generations. 
Open meetings to share ideas about future of Studland Bay Purbeck residents are being invited to attend two open meetings to say why Studland Bay is so important to them – just two weeks after Storm Ciarán caused huge damage ... 
Storm Ciarán sweeps into Swanage brushing away its flood defences Concrete blocks along Swanage seafront to protect against flooding were strewn across the road by the force of Storm Ciarán, while Studland beaches had about five years of coastal erosion ... 
Storm Babet: Race against tide to install Swanage flood barrier Swanage in Dorset was hit by Storm Babet as the Environment Agency battled the wind and the rain to put the winter flood protection blocks in place - WATCH VIDEO 
Only days left to shape Swanage’s seafront for next 100 years Controversial multi million pound plans to stabilise the eroding cliff along the seafront in Swanage in Dorset are nearing the end of a public consultation process. 
Swanage gets share of £3 million to tackle coastal erosion A share of a £3 million grant from the government to Dorset Council is to go towards reducing the risk of coastal erosion in the North Beach area of Swanage. 
Corfe Castle sewage works comes clean Residents from Corfe Castle in Dorset were treated to a tour of their local sewage works and were able to quiz Wessex Water officials about why sewage still gets into ... 
Giant sand lizard migrates to Corfe Castle First it popped up at East Creech in Purbeck and now the 20 metre long Sand Lizard has been caught on film spending the last couple of weeks in the ... 
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.