The Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning ancient cliffs and rich geological history, is under threat due to proposals within the Dorset Council's Local Plan which hints at potential massive development along this protected coastline. This development risks not only the natural beauty and distinctive landscape but also the unique biodiversity that this region supports. The Jurassic Coast holds fossils dating back over 180 million years, making it a site of global geological significance and an irreplaceable educational resource.

O.K, that's the AI bit, but what does it mean? The Dorset Local Plan proposes making land available for housing  along several sites along the coast you see above. The nearest one (at East Fleet) would be 500 metres from the Fleet, the inland lagoon also shown in the picture, that's nearer than St Catherines Chapel in the forefront of the picture (at Abbotsbury)

A local plan decides where future housing should be built, local people are not against housing, they need it (e.g. 1000 are already being built at Chickerell east of the B3157) but generations of people have stuck to the consensus that the heritage coast should be protected and land to the west of the B3157 known as the coast road (to the right in the picture) should not be developed. 91% of Chickerell respondents who accepted the 1000 homes in a village of 5000 to their Local Plan in 2019 specifically stated they did not want the heritage coast developed. So much for local democracy.

In 2022 the route was described thus ‘the most Instagram-worthy road trip in the UK’, is the Jurassic Coast road drive, which includes the B3157 from Weymouth to Bridport.

Rest assured if the Council pass their plan this land will be built on. How come the whole world knows that this is a special place, yet Dorset Council does not. It really is the price of everything and the value of nothing

This coast has a list of designations as long as your arm (UNESCO World Heritage site, West Dorset Heritage Coast, Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, European Special Area Of Conservation) but it all counts for nothing if people do not stick up for it.

So please wherever you are in the world Join us in urging Dorset Council to reconsider and withdraw development plans on the Jurassic Coast. Sign this petition to preserve our natural heritage for future generations and to ensure the Jurassic Coast remains an untouched wonder that can be enjoyed by all. Say no to proposed development on the West Dorset Heritage Coast. Please share! We need your help