Project Updates
Project Updates
UPDATE Temporary Wave Barriers 2024-25
Each year the Environment Agency install temporary wave barriers as we await the permanent solution to the risk of coastal flooding in the town. In 2024 the barriers will be installed in 3 locations only - please see the Environment Agency Briefing Document explaining the changes.
Artist Andy Knill with some of the pupils enjoying Outdoor Classroom DayEducational engagement
Dorset Coast Forum recognise that local Swanage schools and organisations will be interested in the project and the outcomes for Swanage both for coastal flood protection and public realm improvements. We encourage inquisitive minds to get involved and once again celebrated Outdoor Classroom Day 2024 on 7 November 2024 with a STEM guided walk for KS2-5 along the new art trail - the 6th free event of this kind we have hosted in Swanage.
Contact Sara to find out more or to book your 1 hour learning session outdoors on the next Outdoor Classroom Day on 7 November 2024.
You can also find lots of interesting resources on our NEW DCF Education Hub!
Flooding Swanage with Art
As part of the Swanage Town Coastal Protection Scheme the Environment Agency currently install temporary wave barriers during the winter months to protect the town from flood risk.
Street artist Tom Phillipscreating one of the panels inspired by work from Y9 art pupils at Swanage SchoolA disability report in 2022 commissioned by Swanage Town Council highlighted that the barriers are too grey for the visually impaired to safely see the contrast between the concrete blocks and the pavement. As a result, a community art project was created using art murals on the blocks for both a specific visual impact for the visually impaired; and also to enhance the town using artistic creativity to raise awareness of the impact of sea level rise and coastal flooding.
The seafront the art trail is one of the most ambitious community art projects in Dorset. Completed and originally installed in Oct 2023 we are pleased to once again display this fantastic art over winter 24/25. The trail is accompanied with a printed art trail leaflet available from the Swanage Information Centre, Swanage Library and local shops and businesses. The trail is also available in electronic format on this webpage here. A larger font guide for the visually impaired is available at the Swanage Information Centre.
We were delighted to be recognised at the Flood & Coast Excellence Awards 2024 in the Community Action category!
Combining the creative talent of 6 local artists, 3 schools, Swanage Youth Club, Swanage Scouts and Swanage community group Allsort'd, the project has gratefully received financial support from the Environment Agency and local sponsors. Find out more about the artists who took part here.
We are pleased to once again offer free Guided Talking Art Walks suitable for all ages, and designed to bring the art to life for anyone with a visual impairment, led by one of our local project artists, Andy Knill. Check out our events section for details.
Flooding Swanage with Art with be available to view throughout autumn winter 2024-5.
