Removal of Middle Beach sea defences given go-ahead

Work to remove sea defences from a Dorset beach is due to begin in September after the scheme to “allow nature to take its course” received planning consent.

The National Trust is proposing “managed realignment” followed by “no intervention” at Middle Beach, Studland, in response to climate change and coastal erosion.

It said the stone gabions were “collapsing and a risk to the public” and their removal would result in a more natural beach within two years.

Dorset Council approved the application after receiving no objections from Natural England, conservation and environment officers and Studland Parish Council.

The site, between South Beach and Knoll Beach, is next to a 120-space car park.

Bracken and sycamore saplings in a neighbouring area will also be removed as part of wider works to create areas of open sand for invertebrate species, breeding birds and reptiles, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

The agent, on behalf of the trust, said: “Once the defences are removed, the shoreline will readjust quite rapidly to a natural alignment, in line with the shoreline management plan, and ensuring the beach future.”

The trust said the works would result in a natural cove and an enhanced wildlife habitat for sand lizards and birds.

Work will also be timed to “minimise the impact on beachgoers, and avoid disturbing sand lizards during the egg-laying period”.

It said the cafe, toilets and beach would remain open.

A beach cafe which operated at the site for more than 70 years was demolished by the National Trust in 2023 due to erosion, with a replacement opened in the car park.