Have your say on the future of the Dorset National Landscape

A new survey has been launched to gather views from people who live and work in Dorset about the future of its cherished landscapes.

The feedback will help shape how Dorset’s natural beauty and wildlife are protected and enhanced over the next five years.

Dorset National Landscape (formerly known as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) is one of 46 protected landscapes across the UK. To help keep it ‘outstanding’ for current and future generations, a Management Plan is created to celebrate what makes Dorset special, identify the challenges it faces, and guide future action.

Since the last Plan was published six years ago, the Dorset National Landscape Partnership has invested over £10 million in projects that support nature, access, heritage, and culture across the county.

The new plan sets out a refreshed vision and priorities across key themes: the Working Landscape; Exploring, Understanding and Engaging; and Planning. With a strong focus on tackling the climate and nature crises, the Plan places greater emphasis on nature recovery and aims to ensure more people from all backgrounds can enjoy and connect with the landscape.

Tom Munro, Dorset National Landscape team leader, explains, “We’ve had a lot of help from our partners in putting the plan together. But what we are missing is the views of local people who know and love their landscapes so well.

“What we want to know from local people is have we prioritised what matters most? Is there anything that we have missed and have we addressed concerns for the future of your local landscape?”

The survey is open until 22 September 2025. You can take part online, pick up a paper copy at your local library, or request one directly from the Dorset National Landscape team.

The team will also be out and about at local events this summer, where you can chat with them in person:

• Bridport (Bucky Doo Square): 30 July, 9am to 2:30pm
• Blandford market: 7 August, 9am to 3pm
• Dorchester (One World Festival, Borough Gardens): 9 August, 11am to 4pm
• Yeovil: 13 September (TBC)
• Swanage: 20 September (TBC)
• Corfe Castle (Inside Out Festival): 20 and 21 September, 11am to 4pm

Cllr Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said: “Listening to our communities is at the heart of how we care for Dorset’s landscapes. This is your chance to help shape the future of the places you love - whether it’s the countryside you walk through, the wildlife you cherish, or the views that make Dorset feel like home. The Dorset National Landscape team plays a crucial role in this work - their deep understanding of the area and commitment to protecting it ensures that local voices are reflected in how we manage and celebrate our natural environment.”

Full details about the survey and events can be found on the Dorset National Landscape website.