• 155km of coast in Dorset and east Devon.

• Englands only natural World Heritage site, designated by UNESCO in 2001

 

Reasons:

 

• exposure along the coast of 185million years of geographical history 

• The contribution to earth sciences, especially in the fossil beds

• Varied coastal scenery

 

Issues along the Jurassic Coast: 

 

1.  Access -- 'The right to roam' challenge. Need to reduce the use of motor cars and promote transport schemes

2. Coastal Defence -- Protection against erosion and flooding. 

3. Education -- 'Honey pot' for field trips. Need more study and visitor centres

4. Management -- A range of  authorities and stakeholders involved. Need for a unitary authority.

5. Military activity -- Use of training grounds and offshore waters for exercise. Public exclusion, noise and safety issue.

6. Oil and gas -- Onshore and offshore exploitation pose pollution risks

7. Population -- Growth of second homes, ageing population, maintaining the viability of rural communities.

8. Pollution and water quality -- Clean beaches and coastal waters are the two main attractions.