National Trust refused permission to move Studland beach huts
The charity's worried they're at risk from coastal erosion
The National Trust has been denied permission by Dorset Council to move eight of its beach huts at Studland.
They wanted to relocate the structures at Middle Beach because they are concerned about the risk of coastal erosion.
The Trust was given planning consent for a similar move of 31 huts in 2017 and 32 in 2001.
In a report to Dorset Council, the National Trust said:
“Due to the sensitive nature of the site a number of surveys have been commissioned along with a more recent ecological appraisal. Careful consideration has been given to selecting an appropriate new site for the beach huts. There will be minimal site preparation which will involve laying railway sleepers to create a level platform on which the beach huts will sit. The huts will be moved individually … The old sites will then be cleared of any debris and left to nature and the rising tide.”
Studland Parish Council did not have any issues with the move.
But there were objections from Natural England, who thought it could damage the local habitat, affecting sand lizards and vegetation.
They also thought moving the huts would lead to people walking around over a wider area, causing further impact on the heathland and wildlife as well as adding to erosion.