Local government
The latest local government news, including Swanage Town Council and Dorset Council.
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 ... 
Victory for Purbeck residents over hated tip booking scheme Dorset Council has climbed down from its controversial policy of forcing Purbeck residents to book half hour slots at household recycling centres - or tips - in Swanage and Wareham. 
Names published of Swanage election nominations The official list of candidates who are standing for election in Swanage in Dorset has been announced, following the death of Bill Trite and the resignation of Debby Monkhouse 
Dorset Council ‘determined’ to launch booking at Swanage tip Dorset Council has said it is determined to introduce a new booking system for Swanage recycling centre, despite a protest by thousands of people. 
Bonfield back for fifth term as Swanage mayor Councillor Tina Foster has stood down as Swanage town mayor and passed the chain of office over to councillor Mike Bonfield, who was elected for a fifth term as mayor 
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 ... 
Stars of Swanage community receive top town awards Residents, who were judged to have excelled in their contribution to the town in 2024, have been presented with a community award at a ceremony in Swanage, Dorset 
Studland villagers to have say on controversial pedestrian crossing A village ballot will be held in Studland in Dorset after locals were left divided by a scheme to install a pedestrian crossing from the village green to Studland Stores ... 
Chance to nominate Swanage’s top stars for community award The annual Swanage Community Awards have been launched for 2025 and local residents are being urged to put forward the names of those who they think are the most deserving ... 
Second home windfall saves Swanage residents from huge tax hike Swanage residents are set to see a 6.61 percent increase in the town council’s part of their council tax bill known as the precept, but that figure would be higher ... 
Will Studland get a new luxury resort hotel? During six days of evidence, passionate arguments were heard in favour of replacing Knoll House hotel in Studland with a £65 million luxury resort but Dorset Council doubled down on ... 
Studland hotel planning appeal to settle future of luxury resort Owners of the century-old Knoll House Hotel in Studland are challenging the decision by Dorset Council to refuse planning permission for a controversial £65 million redevelopment of the site 
Huge victory for Purbeck shoppers as Lidl store approved A new controversial budget supermarket has been granted planning permission at Sandford near Wareham in Dorset by the narrowest of margins 
Dorset planners recommend refusal of Lidl for Purbeck In an extraordinary move, planners at Dorset Council say a discount supermarket at Sandford near Wareham in Dorset should not be granted planning approval, despite overwhelming support from local residents 
MP vows to tackle ‘big concern’ of Purbeck social homes sell-off South Dorset's new MP Lloyd Hatton says he will insist on an urgent meeting with Aster housing group after hearing the scale of the problem caused by its social homes ... 
Thanksgiving for 50 years of Swanage Town Council Despite a nasty accident to the town mayor a few days earlier, a celebration of 50 years of service given to Swanage by its town council went ahead as planned ... 
Purbeck couples may get chance to wed at historic Brownsea Castle Swanage brides may soon be able to marry in a castle built on Brownsea Island by King Henry VIII if plans by John Lewis are passed by Dorset Council. 
Studland bids to become 20 mph village After winning massive support in a parish poll, Studland is the next village in Purbeck to apply to lower the speed limit through its streets to 20 miles an hour. 
New affordable homes for Swanage receive Dorset Council backing More plans for affordable homes for key workers in Swanage were revealed as Dorset Council renewed its efforts to tackle the housing crisis and launched an ad campaign. 
TV chat show host Jonathan Ross objects to Swanage housing plans Joining the chorus of concern about the proposal to create 93 homes on the Harrow House school site in Swanage, local celebrity Jonathan Ross says the plans are “distressing”. 
Plans for 93 new homes on Swanage school site A proposal to create 93 new homes on the site of Harrow House International School in Swanage has been submitted to Dorset Council, with 10 percent of the homes to ... 
Purbeck bans sale of new build properties as second homes The Purbeck Local Plan, which provides a new framework for future planning decisions across the area, has finally been adopted, bringing with it new rules on second homes in Purbeck. 
Solar panels to boost Swanage Town Council’s energy Thousands of pounds are being invested in renewable energy by Swanage Town Council in Dorset, with the aim of reducing its electricity bill and its reliance on the National Grid ... 
Labour MP to represent Swanage at Westminster Labour Party candidate Lloyd Hatton has been elected for South Dorset constituency, defeating former Conservative member of parliament Richard Drax by just over 1,000 votes in the UK General Election. 
Swanage election hustings goes ahead without key player Most candidates standing for South Dorset in the 2024 General Election did show up to the event in Swanage to help residents decide who to vote for, however Richard Drax ... 
South Dorset election candidates to be quizzed in Swanage Voters are to have the opportunity to put their questions to the candidates standing in the UK General Election in the South Dorset constituency, which includes Swanage. 
Staff facing redundancy as Dorset Council library strategy rolls out Libraries run by Dorset Council including Swanage and Wareham, are being reorganised with changes to staffing roles and opening hours. 
Swanage Library to reduce opening hours on Saturdays A major reorganisation of libraries by Dorset Council means Swanage library will now only open for three hours on a Saturday, although it will be open for longer during the ... 
Eight candidates compete to become next MP for South Dorset The names of all those standing in the South Dorset parliamentary constituency covering Swanage have been officially confirmed, ahead of the UK General Election 
Newly elected councillors mark 50 years of Swanage Town Council Following the local elections, a new team of councillors took their seats in the Swanage Town Council chamber for the first time, 50 years after the creation of Swanage Town ... 
Swanage election results spring a few surprises Following the elections, the names of the winning candidates were announced for Swanage Town Council, Dorset Council Swanage ward, and the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner role. 
Names of election candidates for Swanage revealed There’s three elections coming up, in which Swanage residents over the age of 18 can cast their vote and exercise their democratic right. 
Second home tax to help build affordable houses in Purbeck Double council tax is to be charged on all second home owners in Swanage and across Dorset from 1st April 2025. 
Support for Sandbanks Ferry toll rise ‘strongly refuted’ by Dorset Council Dorset Council has denied claims by the Sandbanks Ferry company that it backs its bid to inflation link toll increases. 
Double council tax for Swanage second homes back on agenda Owners of second homes are set to be charged twice the amount of council tax by Dorset Council from 2025 and Swanage Town Council will get more cash too. 
Plans for new Swanage leisure centre kicked into touch A proposal to build a large multipurpose leisure centre at the football ground in Swanage in Dorset, has been scaled back and now there's a new plan. 
Winners of Swanage’s community awards announced Swanage’s community heroes were recognised for their valuable contribution to society at a special event organised by Swanage Town Council. 
Charities given chance to book free Swanage beach hut With the growing popularity of beach huts in Swanage, the town council is looking to support local charities and community groups by offering an opportunity to hire a hut for ... 
Charges scrapped for DIY waste at Swanage tip Households will no longer have to pay to get rid of DIY waste at recycling centres including Swanage, as Dorset Council introduces a new scheme from the start of 2024. 
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. 
Plan to restrict second homes in Purbeck faces further hurdle The Purbeck Local Plan is to face another consultation, delaying further the implementation of new rules on second homes in Purbeck. 
Chance to influence future of Swanage Town Council There’s a big opportunity to change what Swanage Town Council does and how it does it, as all 12 seats on the council are up for election in May 2024. 
Nominate a Swanage community hero for 2023 The annual Swanage Town Council community awards have been launched for 2023 which recognise local people and organisations for their contribution towards the town. 
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. 
Swanage ice cream kiosk business up for grabs The chance to sell ice cream and snacks along Swanage seafront in Dorset is being offered to businesses, along with other opportunities on Swanage Town Council owned land including the ... 
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 ... 
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. 
Road closure to trial a new traffic free section of Swanage seafront Another section of Swanage’s seafront will be closed to traffic during Lifeboat Week to see how pedestrianisation plans might work. 
Swanage seafront survey puts Shore Road traffic as top concern Views on the Swanage Seafront Masterplan - an aspirational document to guide future planning decisions - while generally positive, has revealed that the biggest concern is traffic along the seafront. 
Ice cream kiosks in Swanage closed down owing council thousands The contract to operate two ice cream kiosks on Swanage’s Main Beach has been terminated after the tenants broke the terms of the agreement with Swanage Town Council. 
Rules on dogs in public spaces to be reviewed by Dorset Council A public consultation has started on a new dog-related Public Spaces Protection Order which includes the rules for Swanage Main Beach and Studland beaches. 
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. 
Change to opening hours proposed for Swanage Library after review The days and times Swanage Library is open, are to change if new proposals by Dorset Council get the go ahead. 
Green light given to request for 20mph limit in Langton Matravers Plans for a 20 mile an hour speed limit through Langton Matravers have been approved after a long campaign by locals. 
Huge demand for affordable homes in Langton Matravers Hundreds of people vied for one of 28 affordable homes in a Purbeck village where the average house price is now £555,000. 
Coronation teaspoons given to Swanage children as memento All children attending Swanage primary schools have received a silver plated teaspoon from Swanage Town Council to commemorate the coronation of King Charles III. 
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. 
A day’s parking to cost £20.60 along Swanage seafront The price of on-street parking along Shore Road in Swanage is to increase by an inflation-busting 72 percent, making it one of the most expensive places to park a car ... 
Plans to revitalise Swanage day centre and children’s centre Swanage day centre and the children’s centre in Chapel Lane off the High Street, are to become a health and wellbeing hub for all ages. 
Second home tax in Dorset delayed Dorset Council was set to charge owners of second homes double council tax from April 2024 but its plans have been thwarted by the slow progress of government legislation through ... 
Swanage council scraps gender neutral title in documents Councillors have voted to stop using the title ‘chair’ for anyone chairing a Swanage Town Council meeting and will use ‘chairman' instead, irrespective of gender. 
Plea to change Swanage High Street parking hours A proposal to extend the time that vehicles can park along a stretch of the High Street in Swanage is being given serious consideration by Swanage Town Council 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. 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. 
Swanage car parking fees to go up for spring and summer The cost of parking in a Swanage Town Council long stay car park is to rise for the first time in about 12 years. 
Dorset Council set to double council tax for second home owners Second home owners who don’t let out their property for more than 70 days a year in Swanage and across Dorset, face paying twice the amount of council tax from ... 
Increase in Dorset council tax bill proposed for 2023/24 Dorset Council has set out its initial proposals to raise the cost of council tax for residents from April 2023. 
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. 
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 
Changes proposed to improve pedestrian safety in Swanage The provision for pedestrians in front of Swanage station is ‘very poor’ according to a report being considered by Swanage Town Council. 
More Swanage residents urged to consider hosting Ukrainian refugees Chance for residents in Swanage and across Purbeck to find out more about hosting Ukrainian refugees in a spare room, annex or AirBnB over winter. 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. 
Winners of the Swanage Community Awards 2022 announced Swanage residents, who were judged to have excelled in their contribution to the town in 2022, were presented with a community award at a ceremony in Swanage. 
New consultation on future of Swanage Library Dorset Council is undertaking a second consultation on the future for libraries in its area including Swanage, with the promise that closing them isn't part of the plan. 
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. 
Swanage’s care home residents get to offer their condolences The Swanage Town Mayor accompanied by her deputy, took the town’s book of condolence for the Queen to Swanage’s care homes. 
Swanage turns out to hear the royal proclamation The news of the accession of King Charles III to the throne was announced by the Swanage Town Mayor in a time-honoured tradition - WATCH VIDEO. 
Huge queue for Swanage Town Council toilet meeting More than a hundred local residents turned out for a meeting about the toilets at Burlington Chine in Swanage, prompted by inaccurate information on social media. 
Rollout of ‘ultrafast’ broadband in Swanage to start soon Swanage schools, Durlston Country Park and the tip in Swanage are to be among the first places in the UK to benefit from ‘next generation’ full-fibre broadband. 
New mayor for Swanage elected as Avril Harris forced to stand down In a surprise move, councillors voted for a Tory candidate to replace Labour councillor Avril Harris as Swanage Town Mayor. 
Swanage community awards launched to recognise local heroes Nominations are being invited for the Swanage Town Council Community Awards 2021/22, to reward individuals and organisations for their outstanding contribution to the community. 
New bins for Swanage seafront in latest attempt to tackle litter Bigger bins with seagull resistant lids have been deployed at Swanage litter hotspots in a bid to keep the town tidy. 
Planning granted for 90 homes on old Swanage Grammar site The former Swanage Grammar School site next to St Mary’s RC Primary School and nursery has got permission to be redeveloped, despite concerns from some parents. 
Repair bill for Swanage beach toilets to cost thousands The future of the public toilets to the north of Swanage Bay is up for discussion after a sewage pipe fractured. Swanage Town Council increases its council tax income by 12 percent The amount Swanage Town Council raises from council tax for 2022/23 is to go up by an inflation-busting 12.4 percent. 
Swanage and Studland not likely to get Dorset barbecue and fly camping bans Legal bans on antisocial lighting of fires and camping on beaches, are to be introduced by Dorset Council but it’s proposed they won’t cover most of Purbeck. 
‘Steep increase’ of dog poo on Swanage footpaths and green spaces Swanage Town Council says members of its operations team have been hit by flying dog poo on at least 20 occasions in the last seven months. 
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. . 
New rules on Blue Badges in Dorset Council car parks set to come in Under new proposals, Blue Badge holders will have to pay when visiting Dorset Council owned car parks in Corfe Castle and Wareham. 
Jobs up for grabs at Swanage Town Council With 13 vacancies, Swanage Town Council is holding a jobs fair so people can find out more about the roles based in the Dorset seaside town. 
Planning officers agree affordable homes aren’t viable at Swanage site A row over whether new housing on the former St Mary’s School site in Swanage should include affordable homes, is expected to blow up again. 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. 
Councillors angered by bid to remove affordable housing in Swanage In a heated debate, Dorset Council nearly threw out the requirement for affordable housing from a proposed development in Swanage but settled on deferring the decision. 
Bin collections across Purbeck still disrupted admits Dorset Council Apologising to residents in Swanage and across Purbeck, Dorset Council says it is trying to fix the problem of missed or delayed bin collections. 
Swanage residents’ views sought on a pocket of open land The future of the old St Mark’s School playing field and sports court in Herston is under discussion since Swanage Town Council signed a lease to take over the land. 
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. 
Swanage library invites views on future services The future of Swanage library - along with others in the county – is the subject of a public consultation that’s been launched by Dorset Council. Swanage on-street parking charges set to go up The cost of parking in Station Road and Shore Road is to increase, along with Dorset Council owned car parks in Wareham and Corfe Castle, if the plans get the ... 
Swanage street name may be changed after complaint A street name that a family holidaying in Swanage found offensive is set to be altered after they contacted Dorset Council. 
Latest on Swanage Ambulance Car In response to concerns from Swanage residents, a special committee is to be set up by Dorset Council to scrutinise proposals about the future of the ambulance car. 
Fundraising hits target to refurbish play area in Langton Matravers Langton Matravers’ Parish Council has successfully raised £36,000 to re-equip the children’s playground, boosted by a £5,000 donation from a housing association. 
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. 
Red phone box saved in Studland as another is lost in Swanage Studland Parish Council is to buy the telephone box in the village after an iconic kiosk by the ferry was removed before councillors could act. 
Dorset Council calls on central government to fix bin lorry driver shortage Regular rubbish bin and recycling collections are being missed in Swanage and across the county due to what Dorset Council calls an unprecedented staff shortage. Dorset Council appeal to find homes for Afghan refugees The need to accommodate Afghans fleeing the Taliban has prompted Dorset Council to urge private landlords and owners of second homes in Swanage and across the county to come forward. 
Planning granted for Stoborough housing but no second homes allowed Outline planning permission has been approved for a housing development in Stoborough on the Isle of Purbeck, on the condition it meets the terms of the Arne Local Plan. Swanage Town Council pays tribute to employee who died suddenly In what has been described as a “terrible shock”, a long-serving enforcement officer for Swanage Town Council collapsed while on duty. 
Housing scheme plugs gap for adults in social care across Purbeck A year after being completed, the modular apartments in Wareham are being deemed a success, as residents become more independent. 
No parking in new loading bays comes into effect in Swanage While the work to create new loading bays in Swanage town centre was completed in June 2020, the rules to enable fines for illegal parking have just come into effect. 
Concern expressed by councillors over Swanage Ambulance Car’s future At the first meeting open to the public, to discuss the review of the Swanage Ambulance Car, councillors who represent residents in Purbeck, lined up to voice their views. 
Avril, the first Labour Mayor of Swanage! After four years, councillor Mike Bonfield has stepped down as Swanage Mayor and councillor Avril Harris has been elected to become the town’s 20th mayor. 
New Swanage Town councillor named The result of the by-election for the Swanage North Ward has been announced. 
Swanage voters go to the polls The polling stations will be open from 7 am for residents to choose a new Swanage Town Council councillor and the Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner. 
Despite pandemic, Dorset Council meets its affordable housing target Over the last year, Dorset Council says that 301 new-build affordable homes were constructed with many of them in Swanage and Wareham, fulfilling its target of 300. 
Planning legislation to restrict second homes in Purbeck delayed The Purbeck Local Plan has been delayed while Dorset Council considers the responses to the latest public consultation. Local election candidates announced The names of those standing for election in the Swanage Town Council by-election and as Dorset’s next police and crime commissioner have been confirmed. 
Too late for Dorset barbecue ban for this summer Amid criticism of moving too slowly to implement a legal order banning the use of disposable barbecues in public spaces, Dorset Council will rely on an information campaign this year. Swanage’s on-street parking charges to be reviewed As part of new proposals on parking charges across Dorset Council, on-street parking in Swanage is under review. 
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. 
Plans to prevent staycationer hell, rolled out by Dorset Council Dorset Council says it’s putting in robust measures to prevent a repeat of last summer's beach overcrowding, littering, illegal parking and outdoor toileting. 
More rural building granted as Purbeck misses housing target The government has told Dorset Council that planning permission in Purbeck should be tilted in favour of allowing new housing to be built outside a village’s development boundary. 
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. 
Action taken in Swanage against abandoned cars As part of an enforcement operation, a team from Dorset Council has targeted abandoned vehicles in towns across the county, including Swanage. 
Swanage Town Council seat up for election in May A Swanage Town Council ward election is set to go ahead following the passing of a “generous” and “respectful” councillor. 
Swanage Councillors pledge action to retain the Purbeck Paramedic Car In response to residents' concerns about the scrapping of the paramedic car, Swanage Town Council says it would like to meet with the South Western Ambulance Service Trust. 
Swanage Town Council says no to 150 more homes and gypsy site The town council doesn't back the Dorset Council's Local Plan on housing and gypsy site but wants to "leave the door ajar" for a supermarket outside the town centre. 
Corfe Castle calls People’s Assembly to discuss Dorset Local Plan Residents across Purbeck are being given the opportunity to discuss the Dorset Council planning document that will guide decisions until 2038. 
Big cash boosts for Purbeck community hubs Two Purbeck organisations are set to receive an injection of cash from Dorset Council as part of a grant scheme to support our cultural and community centres in Dorset. 
Swanage councillors disown leaflet about proposed gypsy site Councillor Gary Suttle and councillor Bill Trite who represent Swanage on Dorset Council say they did not write a leaflet that objects to a proposed gypsy site in Swanage. 
Ban on barbecues put on back burner by Dorset Council A Dorset Council committee has recommended not to impose an outright enforceable ban on disposable barbecues across its land. “Bitter pill to swallow” – Council tax to rise by five percent Dorset Council, faced with a budget shortfall in excess of £18m due to the Covid pandemic, has voted to increase council tax for residents. 
Proposal to turn Wareham Quay into a piazza A group of residents, backed by the environmental group, Planet Purbeck have come up with a proposal to pedestrianise Wareham Quay. 
Views sought on use of £10m former school by Dorset Council Dorset Council wants to hear the views of Swanage residents about using St Mary’s School near Shaftesbury as a special school for pupils with additional needs. #Willdoes, Rotary and children’s charity get grants from Swanage Town Council Local good causes have been awarded grants by Swanage Town Council to help with their charitable work. New questions on gender and military service in Census 2021 Swanage residents will be asked to fill in the once-a-decade survey of households this March 2021. Polling stations to be ‘Covid secure’ for May local elections Swanage voters are being reassured that safety measures are being put in place to allow local elections to go ahead in 2021 
Keeping most services running through lockdown says Dorset Council As Swanage settles in for another pandemic-necessitated lockdown, Dorset Council has released a list of its services, detailing what’s open, what’s shut and what is continuing but with restrictions. 
Many Swanage residents split between tiers as stricter Covid restrictions announced Dorset Council area is moving to tier three, while BCP council area, with its higher number of cases, is moving to tier four. 
New legal backing for dog rules in Dorset Swanage dog owners must take note that a new legal framework around dogs in public spaces will come into force in the new year. 
Swanage Christmas bin collection changes and a chance to help charity too! Christmas festivities are nearly upon us - but Dorset residents should make note of the new dates for the refuse and recycling collections over the coming days. 
Swanage Mayor hopes for brighter 2021 as he thanks those who’ve been supportive of others In his Christmas message, Swanage Mayor, Mike Bonfield paid tribute to the town’s key workers, volunteers and residents for all pulling together over the past 10 months. 
Dorset stays in Tier 2 as hospitals remain under pressure The whole of Dorset will remain under Tier 2 Covid restrictions amid concerns about the level of coronavirus cases in the area. 
Swanage Mayor backs plan to breathe fresh life into The Mowlem Swanage’s mayor has voiced his full support for a regeneration of the town’s iconic Mowlem theatre. 
Demolition of Swanage WW2 defences possible as public consultation ordered The future of the Second World War gun battery at Peveril Point hangs in the balance as the structure is decaying and it will cost thousands of pounds to extend ... 
“Drop in and pick up” free coats and PJs for kids in Swanage Parents in need of coats and pyjamas for their children are invited to stop by Swanage Children’s Centre to collect clothing to keep their kids warm through the bleak winter ... 
Free parking on offer in Dorset as Christmas shopping season begins As Christmas 2020 draws ever nearer, shoppers can enjoy free parking on certain days in Dorset Council car parks. 
Check which Purbeck roads are getting gritted, as it starts to get icy With winter and frosty mornings on their way, Dorset Council has initiated a new approach to gritting and Swanage residents can check online which roads have been treated and when. 
Swanage councillors recommend removal of parking spaces for bin lorry access The newly created on-street parking on the High Street near the library, is being recommended to be scrapped, after residents complained that the bin lorry can’t get up Mount Pleasant ... 
Plan to give legal backing to Purbeck second home restrictions in final stage The Purbeck Local Plan, which aims to provide the framework for future planning decisions, is out for consultation for the last time. 
Chance to make a difference during lockdown by tackling Swanage’s housing crisis A community-led affordable housing scheme in Swanage is being proposed and there's a Zoom meeting to find out more. 
What Dorset Council will and won’t deliver during November lockdown Many services in Swanage provided by Dorset Council are to continue through this second lockdown, however some things will have to shut to comply with Covid guidelines. 
Dorset bin collections and local tip expected to be “largely unaffected” by new lockdown The leader of Dorset Council has said he’s hopeful that most council services will continue as usual under the new set of rules to reduce the spread of coronavirus. 
Covid marshals to be deployed in Dorset towns this weekend With a sharp increase in the number of cases of coronavirus across the county, Covid marshals are to start patrolling the streets of the main towns in Dorset. 
Refuse collection in Purbeck to get new staff and vehicles Following a difficult spell for bin collections across Purbeck, Dorset Council has taken on new drivers and has plans for new vehicles. 
New initiative investigated to slow down traffic coming into Swanage Across Dorset, 45 communities already have electronic signs that show an approaching vehicle’s speed and now Swanage may get one too. 
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. 
Public Health Dorset and Dorset Council to give live briefing for residents on Covid With coronavirus cases on the increase in Swanage and across Dorset, there's to be a live briefing this week on plans to tackle the pandemic. 
Purbeck village pursues 20mph speed limit despite lack of “collision data” Langton Matravers’ parish councillors express disappointment that the request to Dorset Council for a 20mph speed limit through their village is “probably not looking positive". 
£500 self-isolation payment and Covid welfare check rolled out by Dorset Council Swanage residents forced to self-isolate may be entitled to financial support, and will get a call from the council to check on their welfare. 
Swanage organisations urged to apply for a slice of £100k fund Community projects in Swanage are being encouraged to apply for a grant of up to £5,000 from Dorset Council’s Leisure Development Fund. Swanage Beach open to dogs again for winter season Dogs are allowed back on Swanage’s Main Beach as the summer season has come to an end. 
Planning permission granted for 19 homes in Langton Matravers The Old Malthouse site near Swanage has been granted planning approval despite objections that it doesn't including affordable housing. 
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. 
Restoration work to start on Swanage’s Stone Quay and Parade A new and innovative engineering approach is being used to strengthen the Grade II listed stone quay and parade along Swanage’s historic seafront. 
Majority want permanent closure of Shore Road in Swanage In a survey of residents, 62 percent said Shore Road should be closed permanently between The Mowlem and the junction with Victoria Avenue. 
Price freeze on Swanage beach huts for next summer Anyone hiring a council-owned Shore Road beach hut will have to pay the whole cost upfront next year - but there will be no price increase. 
Councillor Mike Bonfield re-elected as Swanage Mayor for a new term Having steered Swanage Town Council through the coronavirus pandemic, Mike Bonfield has been re-elected at the annual council meeting. 
Swanage Library brings back fines for overdue books Swanage Library is reintroducing overdue charges, after fines were suspended in the wake of the coronavirus crisis but it's also reinstating reservations. 
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. 
Swanage Library to reopen with new COVID-19 rules A new chapter for Swanage Library starts today as it reopens following its sudden closure last March 2020 due to the coronavirus crisis. 
£980k to make one person redundant, says Dorset Council While Dorset Council says it has saved £10m in staff costs, It's also revealed it cost £980k to make just one person redundant. 
Dorset Council agrees to suspend Swanage traffic experiment Following 90 objections to the reversal of traffic flow of Kings Road East, Dorset Council has announced a date when everything will revert back to normal. 
Swanage’s town centre traffic experiment to be scrapped The flow of traffic on Kings Road East is to be reversed, after the “dangerous” increase in traffic along the High Street. 
Bournemouth Hospital redevelopment gets planning approval Building plans at Royal Bournemouth Hospital, as part of the proposals to remove A&E and maternity services from Poole Hospital, have got the go ahead. Dorset Council says COVID-19 cost means difficult financial decisions ahead Due to the coronavirus crisis, Dorset Council says its unexpected £60m bill means it’ll have to dip into its reserves to survive. Thousands of jobs available for 2021 Census says Dorset Council People in Swanage and across Dorset are being encouraged to apply for temporary jobs to help collect data for the 2021 Census. 
Purbeck Sports Centre set to reopen after lockdown Following the further easing of lockdown, Purbeck Sports Centre in Wareham is to finally reopen after being closed for four months. 
Swanage Town Crier wins world’s first virtual town crier competition! Despite stiff international competition, Swanage Town Crier, Andrew Fleming has become the first ever virtual town crier world champion. 
Three Swanage retailers star in COVID-19 films Videos made to show how shops and businesses in Dorset are adapting to the coronavirus pandemic have chosen to feature three shops in Swanage. 
Fines possible for using disposable barbecues in Dorset Dorset Council has voted to look at measures to ban the use of disposable barbecues, including issuing fixed penalty notices. 
Financial cost of Covid-19 to Swanage is over £500k The financial cost of the coronavirus pandemic to Swanage is likely to total over half a million pounds in loss of income to the town council. 
Social distancing signs get graphic in Wareham While Swanage has opted for discreet social distancing messages on its pavements, Wareham has plumped for a more eye-catching design. Dorset Council looking at options to ban disposable barbecues Following the devastating fire in Wareham Forest, Dorset Council is now considering ways to prohibit the use of disposable barbecues in the area. 
‘Leave Space’ signs to make Swanage safer A social distancing message has been sprayed onto town centre pavements to help keep the town safer from the spread of coronavirus. 
Swanage car parks to start charging again Car parking charges that were suspended during lockdown are to be reinstated for the car parks operated by Swanage Town Council. 
South West has second highest coronavirus R rate in England The Director of Public Health for Dorset says the South West does have one of the highest R rates in England but it’s not that bad - SEE VIDEO. 
New booking system for Durdle Door and fines for illegal parking To prevent a repeat of last weekend’s shocking scenes at Durdle Door of overcrowding, tombstoning and antisocial behavior, a new approach has been agreed. 
Respect our communities pleads Dorset Ahead of a meeting to prevent a repeat of last weekend's scenes at Durdle Door, visitors are being asked to head home if it's too busy. Business grants up to £25,000 being offered by Dorset Council Small businesses in Swanage that have been impacted by the coronavirus pandemic but haven’t yet qualified for a government grant, may now be eligible. 
Lulworth Estate says it’s powerless to close Durdle Door In the latest news following last weekend’s shocking scenes, Lulworth Estate says it can’t stop people overcrowding its beaches and Dorset Council has written to the PM. ‘No dogs on Swanage Beach’ rule to be enforced For the rest of the summer, dog owners will have to fully comply with the regulations banning dogs from council beaches. 
Day trip to Dorset? “Please think twice” says Dorset Council In a personally worded appeal, Dorset Council’s Leader has asked people not to visit Dorset for now and car parks and loos will remain closed for the time being. 
Swanage Market to reopen with social distancing In a popular move, the town council has given the green light to a phased reopening of Swanage’s Friday market. Revealed – Dorset Council’s crisis response to COVID-19 In Dorset Council’s first online Cabinet meeting, the true extent of its fight against coronavirus in Dorset has been detailed, including its battle for PPE. 
Summer dog beach ban not enforced but dogs must be on leads Details of the arrangements for dogs on Swanage's main beach from 1st May have been posted up on the seafront. 
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. 
Roadworks to restart in central Swanage and traffic lights to return Dorset Council’s highways team is to restart construction work in Institute Road in the centre of Swanage’s shopping area soon. £54m spending on pandemic leaves Dorset Council’s finances “uncomfortable” Dorset Council says it’s expecting to spend an additional £54m on coping with the coronavirus crisis. 
“How badly has your business been affected?” asks Visit Dorset Swanage businesses in the tourism and hospitality sector are being asked to say how much the pandemic has been impacting them. 
Local foster carer tells of family life in lockdown With many families in crisis during the coronavirus pandemic, Dorset Council has launched a campaign backed by foster carer, Amanda. 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. 
Report “selfish” individuals who fly-tip during crisis, says Dorset Council With household recycling centres closed to help prevent the spread of coronavirus, Swanage residents are needed to help fight fly-tipping. Rules about dogs on Swanage beach relaxed Dorset Council is relaxing the restrictions that prevent dogs being walked on beaches during the warmer months, while the coronavirus pandemic is ongoing. Dorset Council starts paying out emergency cash to businesses The first government grants in response to the coronavirus crisis are now being paid out to businesses in Dorset, including Swanage. Swanage’s Mayor sends his thanks to ‘our lovely town’ The Mayor, Mike Bonfield has sent a warm message of thanks to residents for their help during the coronavirus crisis. 
The Swanage School appoints new headteacher The governing body of The Swanage School has announced that Jenny Maraspin is to become the school’s new headteacher with immediate effect. 
Swanage’s coronavirus response plans coming together to support the vulnerable Hundreds of community-spirited volunteers across the town are coming forward to offer extra neighbourly support to the vulnerable. 
Coronavirus crisis closes Swanage Library Swanage Library, along with all libraries across Dorset, is set to close at the end of Friday 20th March 2020. Dorset Council launch coronavirus newsletter for residents A coronavirus newsletter is being sent out via email by Dorset Council to keep people updated about latest developments. 
Swanage community spirit steps up to fight coronavirus impact Famous for its community spirit, the town is currently drawing up plans and going online to tackle the challenge of coronavirus. 
Sheps Hollow steps officially closed Extensive cliff erosion in Swanage Bay has forced the official closure of the steps at Sheps Hollow. 
Foot stomping success for The Swanage School’s production of Fame The musical, Fame, performed by a cast from The Swanage School, played to packed audiences at the Mowlem. 
New headteacher for The Swanage School A new headteacher is being sought for The Swanage School following the news that the current head, Tristram Hobson is to step down. Dogs on beaches – Dorset Council public consultation People in Swanage are being asked for their views on the rules for dogs in public areas including beaches. 
Views sought on permanent closure of Shore Road Swanage Town Council has launched a consultation to find out if residents support the possible permanent closure of the south end of Shore Road.