Planning permission has been granted for The Moors at Arne, a scheme on the Isle of Purbeck to adapt approximately 150 hectares of low-lying grassland into diverse wetlands.
Planning permission has been granted for The Moors at Arne, a scheme on the Isle of Purbeck to adapt approximately 150 hectares of low-lying grassland into diverse wetlands.
wetlArtist's impression of The Moors at Arne nature haven in Dorset
A partnership between the Environment Agency, RSPB, and Natural England, the project will provide essential space for nature to replace areas lost elsewhere in Poole Harbour due to sea level rise.
The granting of planning permission by Dorset Council means the ambitious scheme to compensate for the impacts of climate change can proceed, and a three-year programme of construction will begin in spring 2023.
Careful construction of new tidal embankments will create a mosaic of saline and freshwater areas. The new areas will take several years to establish and will continue to evolve over time, but in doing so will protect natural surroundings, while improving and maintaining flood resilience. Without these works, this unique coastal landscape and its wealth of protected species is at risk from sea level rise and could be lost in the future.
Ron Curtis of the Environment Agency added:
“We are delighted to be working in partnership with RSPB and Natural England on such an exciting project that will provide benefits for wildlife and all those who live, work or visit the Poole harbour area.
Dante Munns of the RSPB said:
"We are delighted that this scheme has been approved. It has taken a long time to plan and develop and is an exemplar of how technical specialists, stakeholders and the wider public have worked together.”
Close collaboration with the RSPB and Natural England has ensured the project’s construction programme safeguards the site’s rare plants and host of resident creatures which include water voles, sand lizards, and birdlife.”
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