The coastline which extends from Poole Harbour in the east to White Nothe in the west is a distance of approximately 90km. It includes the southern boundary of Poole Harbour and the islands within it. Part of the coastal boundary, running from the chalk stacks at Old Harry to the western boundary, forms part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Read our Coastal and Flooding Issues - Roles and Responsibilities
Most of the coastline in this area is undeveloped and, in general, we do not take any action to combat coastal erosion. It is only where the coastline is developed that it is economical to carry out coast defence works.
We are a member of the Standing Conference on Problems Associated with the Coastline (SCOPAC).
Swanage Beach Management Plan
The Swanage Beach Management Plan covers the central part of Swanage Bay coast, extending from the Mowlem to the south, northwards to Shep’s Hollow; a total frontage length of approximately 1.5km. It sets out the flood and coastal erosion risk management activities required along this section of coast.
If you require the Swanage Beach Management Plan document in another format, please contact us.
Durlston Bay Coastal Strategy
Read the Executive Summary and Summary and Conclusions.
Landslides
Heavy rain in December 2012 led to parts of the cliff above Swanage beach becoming unstable with a number of landslips causing debris to fall onto the sea wall and beach.
Further wet weather in January 2013 made the situation worse, with significant landfalls to the north of Ocean Bay, particularly in the section between Burlington Chine and Sheps Hollow. The ground became waterlogged, making the cliff unstable and at risk of further falls of rock and clay.
To gain a better understanding of the current conditions of the cliffs, the Environment Agency granted us emergency funding to commission a full cliff stability survey and investigate safety measures. Read the Swanage North Beach Cliffs Site Inspection Report.