FAQs

A seafront masterplan is an aspirational strategy that aims to improve and conserve the seafront for the benefit of residents, businesses, visitors and the environment. 

It aims to move away from the ad hoc management of the seafront to a more joined up strategy, one that identifies investment priorities and has been informed by the views of the seafront users. 

• We recognise that Swanage is a well-loved beautiful seaside town that has its own character and heritage. The masterplan is presenting an aspirational vision for the seafront where opportunities for change are in keeping and sensitive to its heritage as well as the want and needs of Swanage communities.
• We are seeking the views of the community of seafront users - the residents, businesses and visitors that enjoy what Swanage has to offer. A long-term strategy will ensure that the Town Council can plan their resources effectively to ensure the conservation and improvement of the seafront. 

The seafront masterplan will cover the area from Swanage Pier to Ocean Bay and include the green areas behind the beach (Sandpit fields, the bandstand area and Weather station field).

See a map of the seafront masterplan boundary here.

Please click on the map below to see a larger, clearer copy of the map.

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 400 members from over 190 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.