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The Dorset Coast, a World Heritage Site and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), attracts around 16 million visitors annually, generating 37,500 jobs. Its stunning sandy beaches, unique coastline, and historic landmarks like Corfe Castle, along with famous authors such as Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen, draw tourists. The area's biodiversity features Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) teeming with unique wildlife, including rare orchids. Beyond tourism, opportunities in seafood, farming, quarrying Portland Stone, and onshore oil extraction contribute to the local economy.
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Rural Land Resources Case study – The Dorset Coast Social & Economic Opportunities
Tourism • The main opportunity is tourism, with some 16 million visitors per year, creating 37,500 jobs in the area. • Why? • Long sandy beaches and the unique coastline have meant this area is a World Heritage Site and an AONB.
Spectacular Features of Coastal Erosion Lulworth Cove Durdle Door Chesil Beach The Fleet
Beware! Fossil Hunters • Many of the rocks were formed during the Jurassic period and contain fossils.
SSSI’s The Isle of Portland – SSSI – Due to the rare orchids and Butterflies. The Fleet – SSSI – due to the Wonderful variety of birds.
Long Distance Footpaths • The Dorset Coast Path – part of the SW coast path.
Windsurfing • Windsurfing is popular at Bridport.
Historic Sites • Just inland there are many historic sites, e.g. Corfe Castle
Famous Authors • Much of the area has been immortalised by writers such as Thomas Hardy and Jane Austen – bringing in visitors. Hardy’s monument
Established Holiday Resorts Bournemouth Swanage Lyme Regis
There are many other Social & Economic opportunities in the area. • Small fishing fleets operate out of Poole, Weymouth and West Bay.
Ferries • The natural harbours of Weymouth and Poole are used by ships, including cross channel ferries.
On-Shore Oilfield – Wytch Farm • Western Europe’s largest on-shore oilfield, located at the southern end of Poole at Wytch Farm.
Quarrying Portland Stone • Purbeck marble and Portland Stone are famous building materials which are quarried in the area. Blocks of Marble
Farming • Farming is mainly dairying although much of the downs is given over to arable.
Task • Using your notes, draw a mind map outlining the many social and economic opportunities that are available on the Dorset Coast.