Views sought on sand dune future at tourist hotspot

Sand dunes are a natural part of the habitat at Sandbanks and help prevent flooding and coastal erosion

An image of Sandbanks from 1907 shows the area covered with natural sand dunes

Prior to the 20th Century, the Sandbanks Peninsula was sparsely populated and consisted mainly of sand dunes.

But development in the 1900s saw the loss of this habitat, and the coastline began to experience problems with erosion.

In 1991, a number of storms reduced beach levels considerably, resulting the introduction of the Sandbanks Coast Protection Scheme - which included sand dune regeneration.

A recent study found the sand dunes had become well-established since the project began.

Beachgoers sometimes trample over the sand dunes which can destroy vegetation, according to BCP Council

Sand lizards - a rare and protected species - can now be found in the dunes, meaning the council has a legal duty to protect the habitat.

BCP Council said it meant the options to address issues like sand encroachment and beach accessibility were limited.

The height and spread of the dunes can also have negative impacts on the properties behind them, like blocking sea views or reducing privacy.

Locals are being encouraged to contribute to the survey, which will close at midnight on 30 September 2024.

The authority is then expected to launch a formal consultation.