FAQs
Why is this happening?
The National Trust are a nature conservation charity which provides access to amazing landscapes. Their aim is to develop a vision and strategy for visitor experience and nature conservation at Studland over the next 20 to 50 years, whilst also dealing with the effects of rapid coastal change.
What kind of things will Future Studland encompass?
There are many complex issues involved at Studland. In the face of rising sea levels and erosion the National Trust need to carefully consider changes to infrastructure – cafes, toilets, car parking, beach huts, etc. Theyt also need to look at the effects of visitors on the important biodiversity of the site, and how to balance the needs of both.
Some issues are outside of their control, such as the volume of traffic, public transport limitations and parking on Ferry Road, but we need to work with partners and other organisations to influence future decisions.
How much of the area does this involve?
Future Studland will span the peninsula from Shell Bay to Old Harry Rocks, and include the beaches, sand dunes and other habitats, roads, services, historic features, as well as the village itself.
Whose views are you seeking?
We have already been working closely with statutory organisations, partners, tenants and other stakeholders to shape the plans. We would also very much like members of the public to share their views and ideas, particularly on how they use Studland now, why it is so special to them, and what issues affect their enjoyment of the area. This includes residents, visitors and local businesses. In July and August, there will be a series of public events where people can input their ideas, as well as opportunities to do so online.
Will access to Studland by road be affected?
The National Trust would really like to reduce the impact of people travelling to Studland and the surrounding areas, but the roads are out of the direct control of the National Trust.
Who will be making the decisions? What is the timescale?
After all the feedback has been gathered, it will be collated in the autumn with the aim of finalising the Future Studland plan in 2025. All views and feedback will be analysed and collated before being considered, with final decisions being made by the National Trust, in consultation with its partners.
Who are Dorset Coast Forum?
The Dorset Coast Forum (DCF) is an independent strategic coastal partnership, which looks at the long term, broad-scale issues facing the Dorset coast and its inshore waters.
The overriding aim of the Forum is to promote a sustainable approach to the management, use and development of Dorset’s coastal zone to ensure that its inherent natural and cultural qualities are maintained and enhanced for the benefit of future generations.
Established in 1995, DCF has a strong network of over 500 members from over 260 organisations. We are effective in working in partnership to deliver social, economic and environmental benefits to the Dorset coast, from Lyme Regis to Christchurch. Our members are from the public, charity and private sectors including local authorities, fishing representatives, commercial businesses, environmental, recreational, historical, maritime, business and tourism sectors.
DCF has a core team who are hosted by Dorset Council and based at County Hall in Dorchester as part of the Environment Advice Team. The DCF team works with DCF members to deliver projects and distribute relevant, up to date information.