interpretation action plan - jurassic coast · area is referred to as the world heritage coast, and...

JCWHS Interpretation Action Plan March 2005 1

INTERPRETATION ACTION PLAN

March 2005

“We aspire to be the leading regional and national example of how achieving the conservation, understanding, enjoyment andsustainable use of the environment can also lead to social and economic development” (Dorset and East Devon Coast WorldHeritage Site Framework for Action)

DORSET AND EAST DEVON COAST WORLD HERITAGE SITE


CONTENTS

1 INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................................... 32 CONTEXT ................................................................................................................................................ 43 INTERPRETATION .................................................................................................................................... 74 JURASSIC COAST STORIES ....................................................................................................................... 95 THE ASPIRATION ....................................................................................................................................11

5.1 Site-wide projects ..........................................................................................................................115.2 Site-specific projects ......................................................................................................................16

6 MEANS OF DELIVERY..............................................................................................................................29

Figure 1 Map of the World Heritage Coast with coastal and Inland Gateway Towns, Anchor Towns and othercommunities

Figure 2 Map of the World Heritage Site and AONB Boundaries

Exeter

Bournemouth& Poole

Swanage

Durlston Head

Portland

Weymouth

West Bay

Bridport

Charmouth

LymeRegis

Dorchester

AxminsterHoniton

Exmouth

BudleighSalterton

Sidmouth

Beer

Seaton

Portland Bill

Ladram Bay Abbotsbury

LulworthCove

Kimmeridge

LangtonMatravers

Studland

Wareham

Ferrybridge

Coastal Gateway Town

Inland Gateway or Market Town

Anchor Town

Other community mentioned in this plan

Key

Key

Triassic section of World Heritage Site (Boundary from mean low water mark to top of cliff)

Jurassic section of World Heritage Site (Boundary from mean low water mark to top of cliff)

Cretaceous section of World Heritage Site (Boundary from mean low water mark to top of cliff)

AONB Boundaries

East DevonAONB

DorsetAONB


1 INTRODUCTION

The Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site, also known as the Jurassic Coast, is England ’s first and only naturalWorld Heritage Site. The Site is a 95 mile stretch of the South West coast from Exmouth in East Devon to Studland in Dorset(see Fig 1). It was awarded World Heritage Site status in December 2001 by UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientificand Cultural Organisation) because of its outstanding earth science interest. It is the only place where 185 million years ofthe Earth ’s history are sequentially exposed in dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, coastal stacks and barrier beaches. The tilt ofthe rocks creates a unique ‘walk through time ’ from 250 million to 65 million years ago, through the Triassic, Jurassic andCretaceous periods as you journey eastwards along the Site.

The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site (JCWHS) connects the sea with the broader countryside, most of which is designatedas Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), nationally important for landscape, biodiversity and archaeology. This widerarea is referred to as the World Heritage Coast, and the wealth of outstanding natural heritage within it, combined with thesocial and cultural heritage found in the coastal ‘Gateway Towns’ (see Fig 1) means the whole area has a range and diversityof heritage interests perhaps unsurpassed in the UK. It is also a stunningly beautiful and largely undeveloped part of the UK,valued as much for those reasons as for heritage interests by resident and visiting populations.

This Interpretation Action Plan (IAP) outlines the long-term vision for effective, accessible and sustainable interpretation ofthe World Heritage Site, in the context of the broader World Heritage Coast. It sets out a range of projects that, if achieved,would enable everybody to interpret for themselves the stories that make the Jurassic Coast both so important and globallyunique, and to see how these stories fit into the broader picture of landscape, biodiversity and local history and culture. Ifthe combined projects outlined in this plan are realised in full, it would enable the story of the whole World Heritage Site tobe explored in many different ways, and specific local stories along the World Heritage Coast to be told in more detail.Interpretation would be able to appeal equally to the casual summer seaside visitor as to the geology special interest group.

The actions identified here have come about as a result of a long and ongoing consultation process with individuals,organisations and businesses in the coastal Gateway Towns, and with local authorities and local, regional and nationalagencies. The projects identified in section 5, the Aspiration, have all been identified through the consultation process, andare intended for implementation by different elements of the broader Jurassic Coast partnership (see JCWHS ManagementPlan and Framework For Action). For more details of the consultation process please contact the Jurassic Coast team.

Finally, this is a working document, and will change periodically as plans are developed, but at any one point in time itrepresents the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Steering Group’s aspiration for interpretation along the coast. It provides abroad framework within which projects for interpretation are set out, but each individual project described will have its ownexecution plan and timetable, along with details of risks, assumptions, rationale, actions and plans for monitoring andevaluation. As a result, the plan does not have a fixed timeframe, but does attribute priority of each project, enablingpartners and potential funders to see how each project relates to the overall objectives for management of the Site.

Document structureSection 2 of the document outlines the context in which this plan is written, identifying relevant Management Planobjectives and other documents which have been used to develop or influence the development of the IAP. This is followedin section 3 by a brief discussion about interpretation, both in terms of the resource to interpret and the audience who willbe interpreting. Section 4 outlines the different stories relevant to each of the Gateway Towns and their environs, using ahierarchical structure of interpretation themes relevant to the Jurassic Coast and other natural or social stories. Section 5provides details of the projects identified to interpret the JCWHS, with detailed information about each initiative, thepartnership involved in its delivery, priority with respect to WHS objectives, timing and cost. This section is divided intoprojects relating to the whole WHS (Site-wide) and interpretation projects that are specific to a location (site-specific). Tofollow this, Section 6 briefly outlines the means by which the projects will be delivered and a list of specific Plan-wideresource requirements to be able to achieve this. Finally, section 7 gives a bibliography of key documents and contactdetails.

ProcessThis document has been agreed by the Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site Steering Group. It is a workingdocument, and any changes – particularly to sections 5 and 6 – will need further endorsement by the Steering Group. Aprogress report relating to the projects identified in section 5 will be published quarterly alongside this document, and willbe available to download at www.jurassiccoast.com

Contact and further informationFor information about this document, please contact Sam Rose, World Heritage Projects Co-ordinator on 01305 228656, [email protected]

For more information about the World Heritage Site, or to download any of the documents referred to in this document,please go to www.jurassiccoast.com


2 CONTEXTInterpretation projects for the JCWHS must fall within the context of the agreed management strategies and action plans,and of the World Heritage Site vision and principles. The WHS Management Plan provides the foundation policies and aFramework for Action (FFA) identifies the work programme. The JCWHS Marketing, Education and Transport strategies allfeed into the FFA and provide direction in their specific areas. The actions described here all lead to outcomes that will meetthe objectives and policies identified in the Management plan, and they link to actions and policies identified in the otherstrategies. In particular there is considerable overlap between the actions here and those in the education and marketingaction plans. Furthermore, policies identified in the transport strategy must account for the development of and access tointerpretation facilities in and around the coastal and inland gateway towns. The other key document underpinning thisplan is a Scoping Study into Interpretation facilities undertaken by the Natural History Museum, London, which provided theframework for consultation and set out a broad list of recommendations. Many of the actions within this plan are inresponse to these recommendations.

This section describes briefly how the IAP relates to each of these documents and in what context interpretation actions canbe prioritised. Documents are listed in section 7, and can be found at www.jurassiccoast.com.

2.1 Vision and success criteriaThe Vision and Critical Success Factors as set out in the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site Framework for Action (FFA) are asfollows. These Critical success factors apply equally for the projects outlined in this plan.

Interpretation projects must meet one or more of the success factors outlined above in order to justify being pursued.Likewise, in line with the vision, interpretation actions must aspire to be first class, produce a high quality experience, stemfrom strong partnerships and adhere to the principles of sustainability. The aim for quality is stressed throughout all JurassicCoast strategies, and the level of quality required in the implementation of all strategies will only be achieved with a highlevel of collaboration and partnership.

2.2 Site Management Plan and Framework for Action (FFA)The Site Management plan is the key Jurassic Coast management reference document, with the FFA forming the detailedoutput implementation plan. Within the management plan are 82 policies, relating to 6 objectives. This plan will contributesignificantly to at least four of the policies identified in the Management plan (policies 57-60) and two major areas of workoutlined in the FFA (5 and 6). They are:

Policy 57 A World Heritage information and interpretation plan will be established to bring together the aspirations and actions of therepresentatives of existing providers, and agree an interpretive programme for the Site.

Policy 58 Close control on the quality of interpretive signage and publications about the Site will be maintained. A family of highquality literature will be produced which will provide the lead range of interpretive information about the Site.

Policy 59 The County and local museums, visitor centres and private sector geological attractions will be encouraged to giveappropriate profile to earth science within their public displays, and ensure that the information they provide is of a highquality. Joint working between centres will be encouraged wherever possible.

Policy 60 Effective distribution arrangements for interpretive material will be agreed, making full and appropriate use of the WorldWide Web.

VISIONOur fundamental vision is that World Heritage Status in Dorset and EastDevon will inspire people to celebrate, appreciate and enjoy the WorldHeritage Site, and to safeguard it for future generations in the best possiblecondition. We wish to ensure World Heritage Status becomes a vibrantstrand of the life of Dorset and East Devon, benefiting local people, visitorsand the environment throughout the area.

We will take a lead to secure the World Heritage Site as a place where:• Globally important geology and geomorphology is recognised and

conserved, for science, education, and public enjoyment;• First class facilities are provided to enable local people and visitors to

understand and learn about its special qualities in accessible, innovativeand interesting ways;

• Research is actively encouraged and science is advanced;• The public profile for the earth sciences is raised, and their relevance to

today’s world is demonstrated;• Visitors experience high quality in relation to the Site and its

management, and the services, infrastructure and hospitality theyreceive;

• Awareness of other World Heritage Sites throughout the globe, and theirenvironmental, social and economic needs is generated, and nationaland international partnerships are forged;

• Global recognition leads to new projects and initiatives within the localcommunities and businesses that enhance quality of life in sustainableways: respecting the environment, meeting social needs and benefitingthe economy;

• Strong and sustainable partnerships between the public, private andvoluntary sector come together to make the vision a reality.

CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORSFive factors have been identified as fundamentalmeasures of the success of the JCWHS workprogramme; benchmarks against which theperformance of the work programme should bemeasured:

The Site remains in a condition that warrantsWHS status

Investment (and policy development toencourage it) takes place so that visitormanagement and facilities adapt to meetvisitor’s changing aspirations, and createeducational opportunities

Growth in tourism and the economy related toWH status remains within the capacity of theinfrastructure and the environment

Local communities and business are inspired byWorld Heritage Status, resulting in new localactivity that is high quality and consistent withWH principles

Key partners understand the strategic benefitsof WHS and are motivated to commit resourcesand leadership to achieving them


Other policies within the Management Plan have bearing on this IAP, particularly those relating to conservation, tourism,education and access; some of these will constrain how interpretation facilities may be developed.

The FFA enables the Management Plan policies and objectives to be translated into a work programme, and sets out two keywork areas of action within which the projects identified in this IAP must fit. They are:

2.3 Natural History Museum Scoping StudyUnderpinning this IAP is a Scoping Study on interpretation facilities undertaken by the Natural History Museum (London) in2003, which has been adopted by the World Heritage Steering Group and forms the framework within which plans forinterpretation are be considered. The report presents a range of recommendations and science themes which are outlined inbrief in section 4, and which were used as the basis for the consultation in each of the gateway towns. The report alsoproposed a hierarchy of provision which is broadly used to classify the site-specific projects in section 5. Many of the otherrecommendations within the study have been, or are currently being addressed, and the interpretation themes were used asthe basis for the consultation which led to this document.

While the Scoping Study provided a framework for interpretation, this IAP puts actual projects and aspirations into thatframework, all of which have been identified by the individuals, communities, authorities and agencies along the coast. Thefull list of NHM recommendations can be seen in the Scoping Study, and although some are specific actions which will bedirectly addressed in this plan, others are approaches, such as the sharing of information and learning, which will be adoptedin the implementation of this plan. One of the most significant of these is the recommendation to upgrade existinginterpretation facilities and develop a linked network of high quality visitor facilities, before thinking about the possibility of alarge single facility for interpreting the Site. The aspiration for this network is reflected by the projects in section 5.

2.4 WHS Education StrategyThe WHS Education Strategy defines interpretation as “an educational activity which aims to reveal meanings and relationshipsthrough the use of original objects, by first hand experience and by illustrative media, rather than simply to communicate factualinformation”1. Interpretation is set alongside ‘information’, ‘facilities’ and ‘inspiration’ as one of four factors that is needed inorder to educate. In this case, the inspiration is the World Heritage Site, and the information is the wealth of knowledgebuilt up about the Site over the last few hundred years. Although some facilities exist already in part, the actions within thisIAP define the broader aspirations for facilities to help provide the infrastructure for education.

Many of the actions is this document will help to address the actions outlined in the Education Strategy; not just the builtfacilities but the website, or print material. There is a need for clarity in terms of the delivery of actions of this type – someactions may be more appropriate for delivery by the WHS Education Working Group. Successfully addressing the overlapbetween Interpretation and Education will be a priority for those involved in Interpretation delivery, and the EducationStrategy is an essential reference to consult when implementing the actions. Education and lifelong learning is of the utmostimportance to all projects related to the World Heritage Site, particularly with respect to the involvement of localcommunities, and their ability to engage with the coast at all ages. The learning component is something that will be givendetailed attention project by project.

1 (Tilden, F. (1957) Interpreting Our Heritage, 1st Ed.)

5. INFORMATION, INTERPRETATION & COMMUNICATION

5.1 Develop a Visitor Information and Interpretation Strategyand Plan for the WHS and WHC as a whole to serve as aframework for local developments and proposals, to:� Improve information provision in visitor contact points;� Develop an integrated programming approach to events along

the JC and identify new festival opportunities to enhancedistinctiveness in the Gateway Towns;

� Develop the provision of a WHC website, and its relationshipwith other website provision;

� Ensure local engagement is a key strand of the Strategy.� Establish a hierarchy of interpretation approaches;� Consider appropriate interpretation vehicles5.2 Agree definition of the purpose and objectives of a WHSCentre; undertake options analysis and evaluate the feasibilityof a WHS Centre, if opportunity arises.5.3 Develop a Communications Strategy and plan for the WHSand WHC as a whole, to:� Establish and engage key stakeholders in the programme;� Establish strong information and communication strategies

about the work of the WHS/WHC;� Develop an awareness building campaign to inform residents

and visitors of the value and significance of the WHS ineconomic, educational and scientific development terms.

6. REGENERATION OF GATEWAY & MARKET TOWNS

6.1 Provide advice and support packages to encourage relocationof businesses of value to the WHS/WHC to the area.

6.2 a) Encourage Gateway and Market Towns to consider thevalue and benefit of WHS within their strategic andcommunity development planning, and identify specificprojects for development.b) Strengthen the Gateway and Market Towns as integrateddestinations and brands through engagement with the WHS.

6.3 Encourage investment in high quality measures to improve thebuilt and natural environment, in order to encourage inwardinvestment and enhance quality of life.

6.4 Assist in the identification of strategic priorities for sustainableproduct development and associated employmentopportunities, e.g., visitor centres, harbour developments,niche tourism, services and infrastructure, etc.

6.5 Encourage use of business advisory services for the WHS/WHCto support existing businesses and develop new start-ups.

6.6 Encourage rural diversification and local supply chains to helpin economic development.

6.7 Invest in high quality retail and catering facilities linked to highquality local product sourceing.


2.5 WHS Marketing StrategyPublished in March 2004, the World Heritage Site Marketing Strategy and action plan aims to:1) utilise the recognition of the coast as a WHS to strengthen the local economy and performance of tourism enterprises in the surrounding

area;2) ensure that the WHS offers a high quality, world class visitor experience;3) increase awareness understanding and enjoyment of the special character of the site amongst local people, enterprises, educational

groups and all kinds of visitor; and4) help conserve the site through effective visitor management and raise support for its conservation from visitors and the tourism sector.The overlap with interpretation is of the utmost importance to meet these aims. At the most fundamental level, providing aset of high quality interpretation facilities, such as visitor centres, meets all four aims and provides a basis for marketing thecoast sustainably. The Marketing strategy contains useful recommendations with respect to audience segmentation whichshould directly influence the interpretation actions, and the Marketing Action Plan has a number of shared vehicles forpresenting information, such as the website, and displays.

2.6 WHS Transport StrategyThe WHS Transport Strategy provides a detailed analysis of how provision or support for more sustainable transport may beprovided along the coast, both in terms of direct access to the site, and more widely with respect to visitor and localcommunity transport. The strategy investigates all modes, from walking to use of the private car, but this study alsoexplores the possibility of boat-based transport and the use of existing transport based attractions such as the Swanagerailway. The transport strategy is being used to influence Local Transport Planning by Dorset and Devon County Councils,and it is envisaged that schemes it proposes will support both the tourism infrastructure and local communities in ways thatactually enhance the natural environment.

The two key areas of overlap between the Transport Strategy and the IAP are with respect to transport focused interpretationand existing or new facilities. The former will encourage interpretation on board trains boats and buses, as part of thetransport experience, such as recently done on the Jurassic Bus the CoastlinX53. The transport strategy must also identifyclear policies for enabling people to access existing or new Interpretation facilities; the main means by which people willinterpret the coast. A high quality linked network of interpretation facilities must be served by a commensurate high quality,sustainable range of public and private transport options.

2.7 AONB Management plansThe boundaries of the Dorset and East Devon Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty encompass areas of nationally importantlandscape designated by the UK Government. Their boundaries encompass nearly all of the World Heritage Site itself, and alarge proportion of the surrounding countryside; the only area outside their boundaries is Portland in Dorset. Havingrecently completed statutory management plans, and in their role as part of the broader delivery mechanism for achievingWorld Heritage Site objectives, it is important to account for the policies contained therein with respect to World HeritageSite interpretation. The areas of overlap between plans are being explored and areas of mutual concern, for example coastpath signage or static interpretation panels are being treated as collaborations.

2.8 WHS Museums Working groupThe WHS Museums Working Group has developed clear terms of reference and started an audit of resources relating to theWHS. Of all of the WHS working groups outside the Gateway Town group it is likely that it will have the most direct inputand involvement with the IAP, as museums (along with other non-museum interpretation centres) provide an existing, notinsubstantial, body of infrastructure for WHS interpretation. Their terms of reference are entirely consistent with theconcepts discussed so far, including aiming to work in partnership, and include the need to coordinate developments andinterpretation of the Jurassic Coast in the appropriate museums, and to be inclusive in recognising that there arecontributions to the made to the development of the World Heritage Site by a variety of museums.

2.9 Other documentsThere are a range of other parish and local plans, County-wide strategies, Regional and National strategies which have abearing on interpretation of the JCWHS. These are not discussed here, but all have relevance in certain areas, such asTourism, or economic regeneration, or local issues, and should be considered on a project by project basis. Thesedocuments include the Regional Economic Strategy (SWRDA), the Sustainable Development Framework for the South West(Regional Assembly), Towards 2015 (SW Tourism), the Dorset Coast Strategy (Dorset Coast Forum), Local Authorityregeneration strategies and Corporate Plans, (Dorset and Devon County Council), Dorset Cultural Strategy (Dorset CountyCouncil), Regional Strategy for the SW Environment 2004-2014 (Regional Assembly).

2.10 SummaryThe challenge of the IAP is to consider the ideas and proposals put forward through the consultation process in the contextof both the NHM Scoping Study into Interpretation Facilities and the broader WHS management objectives. While WHSstatus gives global value and international importance, it should be recognised that there are many complementary stories totell along the site.

The WHS Management Plan, FFA and other strategies point to some of the IAP actions being site-wide and largely theresponsibility of the World Heritage Team and direct implementation partners. However, the achievement of the Vision infull will require the mainstreaming of the WHS messages into existing, partner-led ideas and plans. Although complex andrequiring combining and balancing WHS objectives with other concerns, it is hoped that the end will be a jointly-owned andlong-term aspiration to achieve high quality, linked interpretation facilities and resources for the Jurassic Coast.


GUIDING PRINCIPLES

The coast and specimensfrom it are the startingpoints for allcommunication –interpretation should refervisitors to the landscape asmuch as possible

Interpretation must beappropriate to the needs ofits audiences

Interpretation shouldrespond to local diversity

Interpretation should allowfor emotion and enjoymentas well as intellectualengagement

Interpretation (activities andfacilities) must besustainable and responsiveto the conservation needsof the site

Site-wide and localinterpretation must becomplementary, notcompetitive

3 INTERPRETATION

3.1 Definition & Guiding principlesWH Steering Group has adopted the definition and guiding principles proposed by the NaturalHistory Museum scoping Study in order to deliver Interpretation of the JCWHS.

“Interpretation is a communication process that forges emotional and intellectualconnections between the interests of the audience and the inherent meanings in the

resource.” 2

For interpretation to be successful both the resource to be interpreted, and the target audience todo the interpreting must be clearly defined.

3.2 Resource

The resource alluded to here is primarily the World Heritage Site itself, including all physicalattributes such as the rocks, fossils and landforms, and additionally the less tangible factors, suchas the history of science and the aesthetic values of the coast as a landscape feature. But theresource is wider than just this and is also the wider natural and cultural context in which the

World Heritage Site sits. This might be represented by the stories of building stone and quarryingalong the coast, or the biodiversity that changes as the underlying geology changes.

3.2.1 Interpretation ThemesThe flagship theme for the whole World Heritage Site is ‘The Walk through Time’. By this wemean that geological time should be a key concept that is conveyed in the interpretation, andthat a journey though time is used as the lead story to link up the total picture of past life andearth processes provided by the World Heritage Site.

Because the site is so extensive and diverse, and to provide a structure for the stories that we want to communicate aboutthe JCWHS, the NHM Scoping study recommended that a set of primary and secondary interpretation themes are used.These can then be applied to each part of the coast to determine their unique mix of stories (or unique selling point (USP).Because of the remote and inaccessible nature of much of the Site itself, the infrastructure for interpretation is largely focusedin and around the coastal Gateway towns. In addition to being a gateway to a unique part of the WHS, each of these townshave their own social and cultural story, and so to reflect this, a third set of interpretation themes is used, based on storiesthat are not based on natural heritage, but those of importance to the town. The principal interpretation themes are shownin the table below.

Worlds of the dinosaurs Fossils and Past EnvironmentsThe ever-changing coast Coastal GeomorphologyBirthplace of a science History of GeologyGeology for the future The Future of the Science of Geology

Primaryinterpretationthemes

World Heritage Sites for today and tomorrow World Heritage Sites, their conservation and sustainabilityGeology and the landscape Geology and geomorphology’s influence in creating the landscapeLocal stone – local character Local stone and local characterStories of stone Use of rocks and stoneGreat nature’s open book How wildlife depends on the coast’s geology

Secondaryinterpretationthemes

Inspiration from the coast Artistic activity inspired by the coastSea stories Non geological coastal storiesLocal History & culture Strong local interest and heritage storiesArchaeology Archaeological heritage and

Additionalthemes

Transport & geography Specific features relating to the location within the site

The unique mixture of stories for each town is critical to show the complete picture of the location-specific stories along theSite, and which when brought together enable the complete story of the whole JCWHS and wider World Heritage Coast tobe recognised.

2 National Association for Interpretation


3.3 AudienceThis section identifies the key audiences for interpretation along the World Heritage Site. Currently, it is based on broadrecommendations from the NHM Scoping Study and the WHS Marketing Strategy, although as more detailed research intoaudiences are undertaken at the different projects along the coast, our understanding are targeting of audiences willincrease.

3.3.1 Priority audiences

? The key task of interpretation will be to connect with a ‘lay audience’, defined in the NHM study as families with childrenaged 7-14. It is essential that existing and proposed facilities and resources can provide simple, good quality informationabout the World Heritage Site to this audience, both local residents and visitors. Further information and more detailwith respect to lay audiences is available in the NHM Scoping Study.

? A second priority is to ensure that interpretation is accessible to all, in particular to groups with specialist needs. Thesemight be people with disabilities (sensory or mobility), or other groups who have particular barriers to accessing theWorld Heritage Site (see 3.3.2 below).

? In relation to tourism, there is a further priority to consider the needs of visitors with a special or specific interest in theSite, or specific market sectors that are important to the different gateway towns. The World Heritage Site MarketingStrategy identifies the need to enhance provision for groups that are most likely to visit out of season, including:

· Older couples visiting without children· Walkers· People with a special interest in the coast’s geology and geomorphology· International visitors· Educational (A-level and higher) and industry training audiences

In support of these priorities, Interpretation facilities must be open and attractive all year round, catering for the more massappeal market during the summer and more the more specialist market out of season. By their nature facilities shouldencourage repeat visits.

As site-specific projects are developed along the coast, each will have a detailed investigation into the likely audiences fortheir facility. This work will consider factors such as existing tourism market, range of accommodation or transportinfrastructure, and how each project will attracts and maintain its audiences, and will be reported in more detail asinformation becomes available.

All of the strategies also strongly recognise the need to equally consider local residents as well as visitors. The spin-offs fromengaged, active and positive local communities are significant in reaching a far broader audience; “local people are the firstpoints of contact for visitors to the Coast and positive word-of-mouth recommendations will be important” (NHM Scoping Study).Because the projects identified in this plan have come largely from the local communities, it is hoped that this will enable thedocument to have a larger degree of local ownership.

3.3.2 Accessibility and InclusionThe NHM scoping study report says “Interpretation should always be developed in reference to inclusion policies... The JCWHSwould benefit from developing a common strategy for these issues, to which each facility could reference.” Also “The JCWHSshould strive to go beyond legislation to Best Practice: for example, exceeding legislative minimum door widths and ramp gradientswithin facilities, and providing interpretation resources for a variety of intellectual abilities…. The site should generate an AccessPolicy and a Social and Ethnic Inclusion Policy to cover issues such as these.”

It is a priority for the World Heritage Steering Group to follow up this recommendation and prepare inclusion and accesspolicies for the WHS. This action will cross-cut all World Heritage Site strategies and action plans, and consideration of accessand inclusion issues will be mainstreamed into the development of all WHS interpretation, from website accessibility, throughmulti-language or spoken guides, to all mobility access. Access and inclusion will be central to all developments. Guidingprinciples will be inserted into later versions of this plan.


4 JURASSIC COAST STORIES

One of the unique properties of the JCWHS is that there are such a vast range off different stories to discover along the 95miles of coast, both geological and other. This provides huge potential for interpretation that is different at each location,but which shows how that site fits within the bigger Site-wide context. As discussed in section 3.2, the NHM studyrecommended a range of themes against which each part of the coast can be explored. The coastal Gateway Towns, andWareham (with respect to rural Purbeck), were consulted about the key stories for their towns and environs, as the locationsfrom which people will be able to interpret the Site and wider World Heritage Coast. The following table summarises themain stories for each town, and shows where areas of duplication might be, or where there are gaps in the WHS storycoverage. Clearly, there is scope for going into much more detail at each town, and each of the projects in section 5 will dothat. For further information for now, the Official Guide to the Jurassic Coast, the Nomination Document or the website allcontain more detail about each area.

TOWN Primary interpretation themes

û Worlds of the dinosaursû The ever-changing coastû Birthplace of a scienceû Geology for the futureû A World Heritage Site for today and

tomorrow

Secondary interpretation themes

û Geology and the landscapeû Local stone – local character Stories of

stoneû Great nature’s open bookû Inspiration from the coast

Additional themes

û Sea storiesû Local History & cultureû Archaeologyû Transport & geography

EXMOUTH Red Cliffs, evidence of the reddeserts from the Triassic period, andof the dawn of the era of dinosaurs Constantly changing sandy beach Links to the Met office

Exe Estuary Internationally importantwildlife site (RAMSAR designation) Beautiful coastal views Inspiration for famous artists

Traditional seaside holiday resort; oneof Britain’s first Important for fishing Historic blue plaque route & Royal

Marines “Avocet Line” train link & close to

Exeter Airport Jurassic Coast cruises - Stuart line Western gateway to the WHS

BUDLEIGHSALTERTON

Budleigh pebbles in red cliffs and onbeach, relic of vast ancient riversystem as part of Triassic desert

Close to Woodbury common;pebblebed heathlands Blackhill Quarry Otter Estuary – important bird life

Former landing for Paddle steamers Sir Walter Raleigh Salt making & lime kilns Roman villa on the Otter, Woodbury

castle & hill forts Fantastic sea views Cycle path - Exmouth

SIDMOUTH Red Cliffs, evidence of the reddeserts, and closest town toimportant Triassic fossil sites Dramatic active cliffs, including

Ladram bay stacks and ‘Chit rock’arch Link to stories of Astronomy & deep

time at Norman LockyerObservatory

The Dramatic Red cliffs and coast hasinspired artists & writers

A distinctive Regency resort Home of UK’s oldest civic society Annual folk festival Character shops High quality 4* hotels

BEER White chalk cliffs in “the wrongplace” Dramatic Hooken landslide and

ongoing active erosion

Quarries in the landscape Beer building stone Famous also for using local flint as a

building material Important local flora & fauna, inc Bats in

Beer Quarry Caves, orchids, and marinelife Thriving local artistic community

Important for fishing and smuggling Beer head important for navigation History of quarrying going back to

Roman times long history of lace making, Source of stone age flint tools Boat trips – visiting WHS from the sea

SEATON &AXMOUTH

Start of the Jurassic period Only place along Site where you can

walk to all three Eras Dynamic changing beach Access to The Undercliff William Coneybeare (Axmouth) and

William Buckland both advanced thescience of Geology around Seaton

Axe river and marshes; local naturereserve & important bird life site Access to the Undercliff National Nature

Reserve; important wilderness habitats “Landslide art” from Bindon Landslide

Axe harbour & fishing Location of the First holiday camp Archaeology; stone age and Romans Seaton Tramway End of the Wessex cycleway

LYME REGIS&CHARMOUTH

Globally important fossil sites;particularly for marine reptiles anddinosaurs. Extensive evidence ofearly Jurassic seas Black Ven; active land slips Access to The Undercliff (LR) Mary Anning’s home and the

birthplace of Earth Sciences (LR)

Coastal erosion and protection case-study (LR) Local material – Lias used in construction Access to the Undercliff National Nature

Reserve; important wilderness habitats(LR) Important habitats on landslides Marine life Hub of local galleries and artists, many

coast inspired

Fishing and historic port; including theCobb harbour (LR) Traditional holiday destination (LR) Boat trips – visiting WHS from the sea

(LR) Direct access to fossils on the beach


TOWN Primary interpretation themes

û Worlds of the dinosaursû The ever-changing coastû Birthplace of a scienceû Geology for the futureû A World Heritage Site for today and

tomorrow

Secondary interpretation themes

û Geology and the landscapeû Local stone – local character Stories of

stoneû Great nature’s open bookû Inspiration from the coast

Additional themes

û Sea storiesû Local History & cultureû Archaeologyû Transport & geography

BRIDPORT &WEST BAY

Dramatic East Cliff; golden BridportSands Important fossil site between West

bay and Burton Bradstock Start of Chesil Beach – world famous

barrier beach Coast protection case study &

harbour regeneration

Bothenhampton stone quarries – localcharacter Gravel exports from Chesil beach, all

round the world as boat ballast Flax growing, hemp for rope making Very active artistic community –

Inspiration from the coast; art, film,writing, photography, festivals,performance and other events East Cliff an important nesting site Voluntary marine reserves off coast Within Dorset AONB – stunning scenery

along coast and inland

Fishing industry, including sea anglingon Chesil beach. History of smuggling Ship building, Rope and net making,

extensive history of harbour Focus for migration (particularly to

Newfoundland) and strong familyhistory and migration studies Extensive underwater archaeology Important for Watersports, an d visiting

WHS from the sea Important local food industry & historic

Brewery

PORTLAND Jurassic seas to Jurassic land;important fossil sites includingmarine reptiles, dinosaurs and fossilforests Dramatic coastal scenery and active

landslides on cliffs Access to Chesil Beach and the Fleet

lagoon

Evidence of quarrying is everywhere andhas a dramatic influence on thelandscape Portland stone has been used as prime

building stone world-wide, including StPaul’s cathedral. It is used throughoutPortland Important wildlife habitats, including in

disused quarries. Particularly birds andbutterflies; DWT reserve Extensive sculpture (Tout quarry) and

other stone and landscape inspired art

Portland Bill lighthouse & PortlandPort. New National Sailing academy Portland Castle & Causeway Fort Important recreational site, particularly

for Watersports and rock climbing Some archaeology Military history Its location makes it a strategic

‘Viewpoint’ for the WHS

WEYMOUTH Traces fossils at nearby Bowleazecove ‘Burning cliffs’ at Ringstead Bay

Fleet lagoon, internationally importantRAMSAR Site Nature reserves, including an RSPB

reserve Weymouth and Portland Nature guide Annual sea and JCWHS inspired festivals

Traditional seaside holiday resort; oneof Britain’s first Long maritime history and currently a

busy ferry port Nothe fort Strong festival programme Good infrastructure, inc. rail link Commercial centre off site Location puts it at the heart of the site;

access to Purbeck, Chesil Beach andPortland, and Jurassic West Dorset Viewing & visiting the WHS from the

sea

RURALPURBECK &WAREHAM

‘Textbook’ geomorphology atLulworth cove & Durdle door The “Lulworth Crumple” the Fossil Forest at Lulworth Globally important Kimmeridge

Jurassic marine fossils and SteveEtches collection Kimmeridgian Oil field Chalk stacks at Old Harry Rocks

Cliffs extensively quarried for Purbeckstone along coast and inland, Chalk Ridge dominates the landscape;

important biodiversity areas, particularlyin MOD range land Purbeck stone; high quality Purbeck

marble Important chalk habitats

History of quarrying throughoutPurbeck Tyneham village and the MoD MOD Extensive archaeology including major

hill forts The most undeveloped and rural part

off the whole WHS

SWANAGE Walking with dinosaurs; extensivedinosaur trackways Important fossil sites; cretaceous

mammals Dramatic coastal scenery and active

landslides on cliffs Important coastal geomorphology Samuel Beckles fossil pits

Cliffs extensively quarried for Purbeckstone (inc Tilly Whim caves at Durlstonhead), Landslides dominate the coastal

landscape Purbeck stone; high quality Purbeck

marble Durlston SAC and SSSI, special

protection area for wildlife; birds,orchids & extensive local marine life George Burt’s Great Globe and Arcadian

landscape

Traditional seaside resort Long history of fishing and stone

industry Durlston Lighthouse George Burt’s Victorian legacy Radar development Historic Town walks Swanage railway Important for coastal boat trips Eastern Gateway to the WHS


5 THE ASPIRATION

Projects that describe the aspiration for interpretation of the JCWHS are divided as follows:

Each project is presented here in brief, with a description of: the potential impact on JCWHS interpretation; the keyinterpretation messages; the partners involved in its delivery; the estimated cost bracket; and the priority, timescale andrecommendations. Please note that Priority coding A, B or C is given based solely on the ‘fit’ with WHS Managementobjectives, accepting that other (non WHS-related) reasons for giving a higher priority may exist.

As they progress, each project will have a full implementation or execution plan, including risks, schedules, detailed budgets,ongoing monitoring and periodic evaluation. Project status, both in terms of outputs and funding, will be monitored in aquarterly Progress report. The information contained here, in sections 5.1 and 5.2, should only need updating when there isa major change in a project, at which point the change or changes will need endorsement by the World Heritage SteeringGroup.

Finally, the projects described here have all come from a combination of the Gateway Town meetings and ongoingconsultation with communities, agencies, Local Authorities and other local and regional partners. The plan thereforerepresents a community-led aspiration and one where the communities are aiming to work together, rather than incompetition.

Acronyms for sections 5.1 and 5.2

JCWHS Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site WHSG World Heritage Steering GroupWHT World Heritage Team TRWG World Heritage Transport Working GroupEWG World Heritage Education Working Group WHCT World Heritage Coast TrustNT National Trust SWCP South West Coast Path National TrailEN English Nature NNR National Nature ReserveEDDC East Devon District Council WDDC West Dorset District CouncilAONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

The reference to timescale indicates when the project may be delivered, or start to be delivered. Short term indicatesdelivery in 2005, medium term in 2005-2008, and long term 2008-2015.

5.1 Site-wide projects

The following table (pages 12-16) brings together the interpretation projects proposed for the whole site. For the purposeof this plan, interpretation services are grouped into three categories. Although there is inevitable overlap between thesecategories, it provides a useful structure for planning actions.

It is critical throughout all these projects that information must be accurate, of the highest quality and that detailed thoughtis given to issues of inclusion and access.

Section 5.1 Site-wide projects

These mainly aim to tell the story of the whole WorldHeritage Site (e.g. Official guide), or will be commonactions implemented the length of the site(e.g. static panels)

Section 5.2 site–specific projects

These are projects that draw significantly on theirlocation for the interpretation messages they aretelling, and might interpret a variety of complementarymessages, including the story of the whole WorldHeritage Site

1. Physical interpretationTangible objects that are serve aspecific interpretation function.For example: displays, signs andpanels.

2. Virtual interpretationPublication or IT- based resourcesthat may be used at any locationto help interpret multiple sites. Forexample: websites; video;animations, publications, exhibitions

3. Experiential interpretationInterpretation through experience,normally involving bringing thestory to life. E.g.: fossil walks;presentations; boat trips; walks; bustrips; art, festivals.


Project title & aims Impact for JCWHS interpretation Delivery bodies andresponsibilities

Estimatedcostbracket

JCWHS Priority,Timescale for implementation,Recommendations

1. Physical interpretation

1.1 DISPLAYS andEXHIBITIONS

To develop and installgeneric or tailored displaymaterial for TouristInformation Centres (TICs),Museums, Visitor Centresand other venues along thecoast.

This should include:a) ‘Point of sale’ displays

for leaflets and saleableproducts

b) More detailedinterpretation displaysor posters

By providing consistent messages andusing a common house style, displayswill have a high impact on awarenessof the Jurassic Coast as a diverse butintegrated Site; TICs, museums andvisitor centres are well visited andoften people’s first point of call

The material within the displays shouldbe focused at a lay audience but withpointers to more detailed information(e.g. website), helping interpretationat all levels

There is also high potential for greaterinclusion through site locations, access& use of different languages andmultimedia

WHT will lead andcoordinate this action, incollaboration with eachof the identified venuesalong the site

For a list of possibledisplay venues pleasesee the table at the endof this section

£10k – 20k Priority A

Short term (ongoing forupdates)

Care must be taken not to‘saturate’ the market with JCmaterial and maintain abalance of consistent andreinforcing site-wide coveragewith distinct and diverse site-specific messages Some of this material should

be for short-term while afacility is being upgraded A range of product should be

made that can be used inCafés, restaurants, B&Bs etc.

1.2 ROAD-SHOW

To establish a travellingexhibition with material,exhibits and displays suitablefor broad interpretation, andmore detailed formal orinformal education

A ‘Jurassic Coast Road-Show’ wouldhave significant interpretativepotential, particularly for outreach tocoastal towns and villages that have nointerpretation facility of their own,holiday parks and inland towns andvillages

The education impact is also huge,and there is a great potential for widerinclusion by involving ITC and the arts,and working with, for example, youthcentres

This facility could travel widerthroughout Dorset, Devon, thebroader South West and nationally

The EWG will lead thisproject, in collaborationwith the WHT, EastDevon and Dorset AONBteams

External partners wouldneed to be sought tomanage this facility on adaily basis

TBC -Capital andstaff costsmust beconsidered

Priority B/A

Medium term

Potentially a high priority, butwould need a partner leadand funding Recommend a feasibility

study undertaken toinvestigate costs, audiencesand long-term viability This project should link into

the strong existing eventsprogramme along the coast

1.3 INTERPRETATIONPANELS

To develop and installJCWHS interpretation panelsintroducing people to theSite at key gateways orpublic spaces (e.g. car parks,seafronts, villages, Jettys,Holiday Parks)

Panels deliver a short and informativemessage raising awareness off theexistence of the JCWHS, and thesignificance of a particular part of theSite

They can provide simple but effectiveways of delivering year roundinterpretation messages; all mobilityaccess and issues of inclusion need tobe addressed

WHS panels will focus almostexclusively on the factors important forJCWHS designation

WHT is responsible forcoordination of contentand development

Installation is led byDorset CountrysideService and East DevonAONB team

<£10k Priority A

Short term (ongoingmaintenance and updating)

This project must becoordinated with otherinterpretation providers (e.g.AONB teams, National Trust) Due care must be given not

to urbanise the countryside Mainstreaming access and

inclusion issues is a highpriority

1.4 GATEWAY TOWNSIGNS

To install ‘Welcome to theWorld Heritage Site’Gateway Town, Rail Station,Bus station and Airportsignage

High Quality Gateway Town and RailStation entry signs have high potentialfor raising resident and visitorawareness of the site, and to foster anincreased feeling of ownershipamongst town residents

Coordinated by WHT, incollaboration withHighways authorities,town councils andStation operatingcompanies

<£10k Priority A

Short term

Awareness and profile raisingmust be supported bycommensurate interpretationfacilities and information ineach town / station. Care must be taken to avoid

increased roadside ‘clutter’





1.5 TRAIL-BASEDSIGNAGE

To create town, or area-based interpretation trails, toexplore the importance of aspecific theme to a town oran area, or to link the SouthWest Coast Path (SWCP)National Trail throughGateway towns

Trails can provide an effective andinteresting way of engaging people –particularly children – with an issue oflocal interest; for example a MaryAnning trail round Lyme Regis

More effective through town signageof the SWCP – the main arterial routelinking the whole Site – would increaseorientation, and art or theme-basedsignage would help raise awareness

Town authorities shouldlead town-basedinterpretation, withsupport from the WHTfor issues of consistency

The SWCP team will havea role in working withtowns to develop SWCPsignage through towns

<£10k Priority B/C

Short / medium term

Coordinate with SWCP teamto look at Jurassic Coast basedsigning of SWCP throughGateway towns Signage for interpretation

facilities within towns is ahigher priority; considered intransport strategy

2. Virtual interpretation

2.1 WEBSITE

To improve the JurassicCoast website, making itmore visitor friendly andmore accessible as aninterpretation tool for lay,specialist and educationaudiences.

An effective website has very highimpact potential for interpretation ofthe JCWHS. The website should allowpeople to experience the JCWHSvirtually, as well as providing themwith the information they need to visitthe site, or to delve deeper into theeducation or scientific background.

The site must equally feel owned bythe local communities yet be suitablefor an increasing internationalaudience.

The website offers considerablepotential for social inclusion and morecomplete accessibility, but care mustbe taken to avoid excluding the part ofthe population without web access.

The WHT will coordinatewebsite redevelopment,with direction from theMarketing Sub-Group,Education WorkingGroup & Science andConservation AdvisoryGroup.

Dorset and DevonCounty Councils with theWHT are currentlyresponsible forimplementation andmaintenance.

TBC - Longterm dev t

of websiteyet to becosted

Priority A

Short & medium term

An effective website is a veryhigh priority for the JCWHS,not just for interpretation, butfor education, conservation,marketing and tourism The Jurassic Coast ‘Virtual

Experience’ will be a keygrowth area for Siteinterpretation It is recommended that the

long-term needs for thewebsite as a multi-purposetool is researched byspecialists

2.2 ‘JURASSIC NET’INFORMATIONSYSTEM

To create a coast-wide virtualinformation andinterpretation system, to beaccessed directly throughterminals at Jurassic CoastInterpretation centres, andremotely at schools andother facilities, and whichgoes into much greaterdetail that is currentlypossible for a website

A system of this type, primarilyaccessed at the main Jurassic Coastvisitor or interpretation centres, hasunlimited scope for interactiveinterpretation, both of the whole Site,and for each of its locations

Being able to providing much moredetailed and ‘data-heavy’ resources(such as high definition films orinteractive video games) than thewebsite, this system would enablethose interested to explore andunderstand the World heritage Site inmuch more detail.

It would also provide real-time linkslocally or globally, e.g. with other WHSites, or with scientists in the field

Because of the potentiallyhigh cost implications,this project would haveto be developed througha public / privatepartnership, involving theWHC Trust

The WHT and workinggroups would ensureaccuracy and consistencyof message

TBC Priority B/A

Medium term

Potentially a very high priorityinitiative, the costimplications and feasibilityshould be considered at theearliest possible opportunity. Information needs for this

project must be considered atthe same time as for thewebsite The system should be

established in allInterpretation Centres to linkthe different sites along theentire 95 miles of JCWHS

2.3 JURASSIC COAST‘LIVE’

To provide information andinterpretation about theJCWHS on a mobile phone,or Personal Digital Assistant

With advances in phone technology,and particularly with location-basedsystems, it is possible to receive instantinformation about the place that youare visiting at the touch of a button.

Aside from the tourism, transport andpurely information-based implications,the scope for this system to allowpeople to engage with the landscapewhilst they are out experiencing it arevast; particularly so for such anelongated site



TBC Priority B

Medium term

Potentially a high priorityinitiative, the costimplications and feasibilityshould be considered at theearliest possible opportunity. Information needs for this

project must be considered atthe same time as for thewebsite and Jurassic Net





2.4 FREE PRINT & OTHERMATERIAL

To develop, print anddistribute a range of freeleaflets and other productsto support JCWHSinterpretation. These mightinclude guides to theJCWHS, walking guides (self-guided walks & town trails),town guides, and materialfor boats, buses and trains,or PowerPoint presentationsand photo libraries.

In parallel with the website,interpretation must be well supportedby a limited range of very high qualityfree print material.

This material is aimed primarily at thelay audience, but with links to furtherinformation sources for the moreinterested visitor.

There is considerable scope for moreinclusive awareness raising; includingforeign and major UK ethnic language(e.g. Urdu, Hindi) versions, large-print,cassettes, CDs etc. They will also allavailable on the website.

The WHT hasresponsibility for ‘in-house’ JCWHS guides,and for ensuringconsistency when theproduct is developed bya partner (e.g. NationalTrust, individual Town).

The WHC Trust should beapproached if a partnerrequests the use of theJurassic Coast logo for itsproduct

In-houseguides<£10K pa

Priority A

Short term (regular ongoingupdates)

The ‘family’ of JCWHS in-house material should be ahigh priority, but the scopeshould be limited so thatguides can remain currentand up-to-date It is recommended that

partners producing materialdirectly relevant to JCWHSinterpretation should contactthe WHT

2.5 SALEABLE PRODUCTS(general)

To produce commercialproducts, such as books,posters, postcards, walkspacks and CD-ROMs.Enabling visitors to engagein more detail throughbooks, CDs etc, or publicise /remember their visit throughpostcards posters etc.

High quality products such as theOfficial Guide to the Jurassic Coast, orJCWHS posters have a key role to playin awareness raising and siteinterpretation. By being something totake away, keep and re-read, theseproducts also help to reinforce thedestination and brand. Paying forsomething also increases retention andownership.

It is likely that as more visitor facilitiescome on stream, there will beincreased demand for a diverse rangeof products.

Official products are theresponsibility of the WHCTrust, working with theWHT for consistency.

Partners (e.g. NationalTrust, Visitor centres) areencouraged to workthrough the Trust for useof the Jurassic Coast logoand through the WHT forensuring accuracy andconsistency.

Productdependant

Priority B

Ongoing

Official products will raisemoney for the ongoingconservation and educationprogrammes via the Trust. Information must be

accurate, of the highestquality and that thought isgiven to inclusion and access;partners are encouraged toconsider the same issues.

2.6 INTERACTIVEJURASSIC COAST DVD

To provide information andinterpretative material aboutthe whole JCWHS in theform of a DVD, including aspecially made film aboutthe whole site and itssignificance

One of the range of WHC Trust-ledsaleable product, this project has thepotential to have very wide impact inboth interpretation and education.

Particularly amongst children, thiscould be an invaluable resource, andsomething that – by its design –encourages people to explore the site.



TBC Priority B/A

Short / medium term

Potentially a high priorityinitiative, the costimplications and feasibilityshould be considered at theearliest possible opportunity. Information needs for this

project would overlap withthose of website and JurassicNet

2.7 VISITOR PASSPORT

To create a Visitor Passportfor the JCWHS

A visitor passport will have several keyinterpretation roles. First it is hopedthat it would encourage people tobecome more involved in the coast, towant to visit the different places alongit, and to engage more directly withtheir environment.

Secondly it will help people to identifywith the whole Site, and encouragerepeat visits - but to different parts ofthe coast.

WHT and WHC Trust <£10k Priority A

Short term

This product must show thediversity of offer under thebanner of the Jurassic Coast. It is important that it should

not be too simplistic, orsimply a ‘collection’ book, buta fun and interactive learningtool





3. Experiential interpretation

3.1 INTERPRETATIONFROM THE SEA

To enable visitors to see andinterpret the JCWHS fromthe sea, either throughdedicated trips or throughinterpretation on existingboat usage, e.g. fishing,general leisure

As so much of the cliffs and beachesare inaccessible, this has very highimpact potential for interpretation ofthe JCWHS.

Suitable boats would enable some all-mobility access, although this wouldinevitably be the larger operator.However, smaller boats would enablemore specialist groups to have closerlow-impact access.

Boat based interpretationis at the initiative of theindividual operators, withWHT support wherepractical.

The JCWHS TransportStrategy identifies this asa key policy area

<£10K forresourcesto supportboatoperators

Priority A

Ongoing

Encouraging and enablingboat operators to provideinterpretation from the Sea isa high priority for the JCWHS Boat operators interested in

this are recommended tocontact the team to talkthrough ideas

3.1 INTERPRETATION BYBUS

To enable visitors to accessand interpret the JCWHSfrom the local bus networkbased on the spinal routeprovided by the CoastlinX53service from Exeter toBournemouth.

Although the amount of the JCWHSthat is visible from the bus routes islimited, the use of the X53 service is atremendous opportunity for awarenessraising and low-level interpretation.

It is also encouraged as an excellentexample of more sustainable transport.

The WHT can providesupport for interpretationmaterials on bus services,but the lead on theseprojects must be privateservice operators, often incollaboration with theCounty TransportServices

<£10K forresourcesto supportboatoperators

Priority A

Ongoing

Bus operators should beencouraged to provideappropriate interpretation

3.3 FESTIVALS

To host festivals or eventscelebrating the JCWHS, orwith a closely related JurassicCoast theme

High impact potential for raisingawareness amongst lay audiences,engaging different groups (includingmore excluded groups), and forprofile-raising, particularly out ofseason.

These events are theresponsibility of theindividual towns or localauthorities along thecoast.

A JCWHS CulturalDelivery Group may playa role in delivery

Eventdependent

Priority B

Ongoing

Town and district Authoritiesare encouraged to developevents along the JurassicCoast theme and providingadvice in support of theseevents is a priority for theJCWHS.

3.4 ARTS

To develop public artprojects linked to JCWHS, orwith a closely related JurassicCoast theme

High impact potential for raisingawareness amongst lay audiences,engaging different groups (includingmore excluded groups), and forprofile-raising, particularly out ofseason.

These events are theresponsibility of theindividual towns or localauthorities along thecoast.

A JCWHS CulturalDelivery Group may playa role in delivery

Projectdependent

Priority B

Ongoing

Town and district Authoritiesare encouraged to developarts projects along the JurassicCoast theme and providingadvice in support of theseevents is a priority for theJCWHS.

3.5 WALKS & LECTURES

To programme and deliverlectures, talks and guidedwalks about aspects of theJCWHS and to link intoguided walks and lecturesabout related themes

Some highly effective events such asfossil walks led from the CharmouthHeritage Coast Centre are among thebest examples of direct, hands-onJCWHS interpretation possible; bydirectly engaging people with theenvironment and with experts

Through carefully programmed eventsit is possible to appeal to both thespecialist audience as well as thegeneral public.

The WHT has a role toplay in terms ofcoordination, but this isalso the responsibility ofindividual interpretationcentres, societies andother groups along thecoast.

Eventdependent

Priority A

Ongoing

Consistency is important, andthere may be a role for aJurassic Coast training andaccreditation system Health and safety is an issue

for any guided walks


Displays and Exhibitions (Project 1.1)The following table shows locations identified as suitable for simple and generic Site-wide, or in some cases more detailedSite-specific display material. There is some overlap here with the site-specific interpretation projects in section 5.2 below.

Tourist Information Centres (TICs) due forexhibition displays, enabling them to act asLocal or Primary Gateways

Other Visitor Centres which should have sometemporary (until the whole centre is upgraded)or permanent upgrading or provision of JCWHSexhibition materialsPhase 1(2004/05) Phase 2 (2005)

All to be confirmed

Local Museums at which no specificdevelopments are planned, but which mayreceive some upgrading of JCWHS displayor materials enabling them to act as LocalGateways Centre Display status

Exmouth TIC Exeter TIC Exmouth Museum & Library Beer Heritage Centre TemporaryBudleigh TIC Honiton TIC Fairlynch Museum, Budleigh Salterton Chesil Beach Centre TemporarySidmouth TIC Axminster TIC Sidmouth Museum Portland Bill Centre PermanentSeaton TIC Sherborne TIC Seaton MuseumLyme Regis TIC Shaftesbury TIC Branscombe

Lulworth Cove HeritageCentre

tbc

Bridport TIC Blandford TIC Portland MuseumWeymouth TIC Wimborne TIC Weymouth Museum

Swanage HeritageCentre

Temporary

Dorchester TIC Poole TIC Square & Compass, Worth Matravers Durlston Castle TemporarySwanage TIC Bournemouth TICWareham TIC Christchurch TIC

Axmouth sea discoverycentre café

Permanent

5.2 Site-specific projects

This table below (pages 17-28) brings together all site-specific interpretation projects related to JCWHS interpretationproposed at the Gateway Town meetings and in the subsequent extended consultation. The result is an aspiration for acomprehensive linked network of complementary visitor centres, which tell their own story and link to the story of the wholeWorld Heritage Site. The reference to timescale is the same as for the Site-wide projects, and indicates when the project maybe delivered, or start to be delivered. Short term indicates delivery in 2005, medium term in 2005-2008, and long term2008-2015.

Each project is referred to in terms of an interpretation hierarchy. This hierarchy broadly follows that proposed by the NHMscoping study. The additional category of Educational Facility has been added to incorporate the aspiration at Field StudiesCentres along the coast, although this does not fit into the hierarchy per-se.

Interpretation Hierarchy

Underlying all of these developments must be considerations of high quality commensurate with WHS status, consistency ofmessage, sustainability, participation, access and inclusion. Above all, in order for the aspiration to be realised, there is aneed for a high degree of co-operation and collaboration. All sites should be linked so as to be individual parts of a WHSwide interpretation system; to enable people to be at one location and understand the whole site, to know what stories thediverse centres tell, to know what events are happening and to enable them to find the most effective and enjoyable way ofexploring the coast. Finally, although not explicitly stated in the ‘Delivery partners’ column, the World Heritage SteeringGroup will be linked into all of these projects through the World Heritage Team.

Primary interpretationgateway Somewhere to find out about

the whole Site, as well as stronglocal messages Good catchments of visitors

and local people and or goodtransport links Able to act as an information

hub for the whole Site and thelocal area Good place for overview

exhibitions and may providesupport for smaller centres

Local interpretationgateway Site-wide and site-specific

interpretation stories Some local gateways will be

just sources of information,such as TICs, others will focuson the local stories Act as local hubs for accessing

the Site itself, and links well toother local centres

Unique insight Offers a unique insight into

a particular aspect of theJCWHS story Aims to widen relevance of

geology to the public andencourage non-geologyvisitors to explore further

Local outpost More isolated sites such

as landmarks,interpretation panels, artin the landscape or justlocations that are moreremote and perhaps lessdirectly related to JCWHSinterpretation

Educational facility A field study centre that can

provide a focus of hands-on directinterpretation and learning,including residential facilities andskilled staff


Project &Role in InterpretationHierarchy

Impact for JCWHSinterpretation

Key Jurassic CoastInterpretationmessages

Deliverypartners

Estimatedcost bracket

WHS Priority*TimescaleRecommendations

ExeterDiscussions yet to be held on Anchor Town enhancements. Initial view of World Heritage Team is that core task is to work through the RoyalAlbert Museum, and to enhance the profile at the main transport nodes in the City – Airport, Bus Station and Railway Station.

ExmouthED1

EXE ESTUARY ANDJURASSIC COASTINTERPRETATIONCENTRE; PROPOSEDNEW FACILITY(provisional name)

RolePrimary interpretationgateway

Exmouth is the western gatewayto the World Heritage Site, andthe ‘start’ of the walk throughtime, but has no existing facilitythat is able to interpret the Site.

The proposed new facility wouldencompass interpretation of theJCWHS, the Exe Estuary, itswildlife, and interconnections,particularly climate change.

There is great potential for asignificant centre to contributeto education, interpretation andresearch of the natural heritageand natural history of the area

· Start of the WorldHeritage Site

· Triassic Period –deserts at the age ofreptiles

· Find out about thewhole WorldHeritage Site

· Find out the links towildlife andbiodiversity

· Explore the linkswith ClimateChange

· Sustainable buildingwith excellent publictransport links

Exmouthcommunity,East DevonDistrictCouncil(EDDC),Exmouth towncouncil, DevonCountyCouncil(Devon CC)and ExeEstuaryPartnership(through theCycleaugroup)

Estimatedcostsanywherebetween £4mand £6mdepending onfeasibility

Priority A

Medium to long term

· Feasibility study andoptions appraisalmust be undertakento investigate viability

· Long term revenuecase to be proved,strengthened by largevisitor and residentbase

· Strong links to otherlocal Interpretationcentres and services(e.g. boat trips) mustbe developed

ED2

NEW INFORMATION ORINTERPRETATION POINTAT QUEENS DRIVE

RoleLocal interpretationgateway

The location of Queens Drivemeans that it would not beappropriate for a major WHSinterpretation facility.

However, there is considerablescope for JCWHS interpretationand information within thecommercial opportunity that hasbeen proposed for this site

Such a facility would help inorienting people, providinginformation, increasingawareness and linking people tothe WH Site proper and to otherinterpretation centres.

· This is where youreally enter theWorld Heritage Site

· You are right at theboundary of JCWHScliffs, sea andEstuary

EDDC, DevonCC

To beconfirmed

Priority A / B

Medium term

· Links must be madebetween this site andthe proposed majorExmouth facility

· Environmentalimprovements areneeded regardless ofany creation of newfacilities

· Must be a high qualitygateway to a WorldClass Site

ED3

EXMOUTH GEONEEDLE;ACCESSIBILITYENHANCEMENTS

RoleLocal outpost

Improving all-mobility access atthis existing development willdirectly improve the ability ofpeople previously unable toreach the Geoneedle’s potentialto interpret the site

· The Geoneedle is acelebration of theachievement ofWorld Heritage Sitestatus. The landmarkis made of the rocksfrom all along theSite

Devon CC,EDDC andNational Trust

Up to £30k Priority A

Short term

· Lessons in accessibilitylearnt from this siteshould be sharedacross other sites

· This should setbenchmarks of goodpractice in access

Budleigh SaltertonED4

EAST DEVON PEBBLEBEDHEATHS; PROPOSEDNEW VISITOR FACILITY(provisional name)

RoleUnique insight roleLocal outpost

The proposed site is currently aquarry on Woodbury Commonwith scheduled close date. It isnot primarily a JCWHSinterpretation opportunity, butthere is potential as part of awider development to tell thestory of the landscape associatedwith Budleigh Pebblebeds, andto make a feature of the pebblesthat were quarried here.

It would also provide a viewpointacross both the JCWHS and theExe Estuary

· These are the samerocks you can see inthe cliffs atBudleigh, but hereyou can view themsafely

· You can see thescale of the hugeriver that left thepebbles here 250myears ago

Clinton DevonEstates

Costs notdetermined

Priority C

Medium to long term

· More work neededbefore prioritisationcan be madeeffectively

· A proposed centreshould link to JCWHSother developments inExmouth, Beer andSeaton

· English nature andEast Devon AONB tobe involved at allstages due to SAC





Deliverypartners



ED5

BICTON COLLEGE FIELDSTUDIES CENTRE;PROPOSED NEWFACILITY

RoleEducational facility

There are currently no residentialfield studies centres in EastDevon. This project, which is ata very early stage, would aim fora new facility to meet the locallyexpressed needs, and link intothe College’s accredited trainingprogrammes in outdooreducation.

Hands-on engagement with theenvironment is one of the mosteffective forms of interpretationand learning. This centre wouldprovide accommodation,expertise and on siteinterpretation as well as safefield-based learning.

· Principally EastDevon stories,accessible at thecoast or on thePebblebed heaths

· Whole Siteinterpretation

Bicton College Not known The priority can only bedetermined when thevision is more clearlyexpressed, but theJCWHS would put a highpriority (as alreadyexpressed in theEducation Strategy) onthe creation of a suitablefacility in East Devon

BUDLEIGH SALTERTONTIC


No proposals for development atthis facility. See Site-wideProjects, Project 1.1 forpotential Display materials.

· Whole JCWHSinterpretation, withmore knowledgeabout facilities in thelocal area

EDDC n/a n/a

ED6

FAIRLYNCH MUSEUM


Some small improvements todisplays and informationprovision in this small localmuseum

· Budleigh pebbles· Triassic red deserts

Local MuseumTrust, DevonCC

<£2k Priority B

Short term

Otterton & Ladram BayOTTERTON MILL

RoleAdditional attraction

Offer of space for temporaryexhibitions and arts links – goodlink to coast at BudleighSalterton

n/a Otterton Mill n/a n/a

ED7

VISITOR FACILITY ATLADRAM BAY HOLIDAYPARK

RoleUnique insight roleLocal outpost

Until recently a small marinevisitor facility providedinterpretation at this site.

The excellent location, captiveHoliday Park audience andfacilities, proven educationalpotential and links through theSWCP make this a potentiallyhigh impact location for WHSinterpretation

· The stacks atLadram Bay arespectacular

· You can see thedesert rocks up closehere

· Important fossilsfrom the dawn ofthe dinosaurs havebeen found here

Ladram BayHoliday Park

Costs notdetermined

Priority B

Medium term

· Any facility must linkto other local sites

· Development must belandowner-led butwith input from WHTand East Devon AONB

SidmouthED8

NORMAN LOCKYEROBSERVATORY

RoleUnique insightAdditional attraction

An existing facility, the NLO is aleading site for interpretation ofastronomy. There is scope todevelop JCWHS stories related todeep time, although they maybe ancillary to the main purposeof the centre.

There is a unique opportunity tolink to other World heritage Sitesthrough astronomy.

Enhancements for centre not yetclear

· Astronomy helps usto appreciate thevast scale andtimescales of theevolution of oursolar system, planetand the evolution oflife; there is a clearlink to the ‘WalkThrough Time’

EDDC own thesite but it isoperated bythe NLO

Not yet known Priority B/C

Short term

· The potential forinvolvement with theJCWHS needs to beexplored in detail

· The scope to integrateWHS themes withinthe existing offer atthe Centre, and topromote it morewidely should be theWHSG priority

SIDMOUTH TIC




EDDC n/a n/a





Deliverypartners



ED9

SIDMOUTH MUSEUM;RHYNCHOSAURUSEXHIBITION


Small museum with interestinglocal geology gallery; importantfor interpreting local rocks andfossils

New exhibition planned tointerpret the Rhynchosaurusfound locally

· Learn about the eraof theRhynchosaurus

· You can see rareTriassic fossils here

Sid ValeAssociation,Devon CC

<£10k Priority A

Short term

· The support forexhibiting local fossilsin local museums is ahigh priority

· Discussions needed toidentify long term rolefor this Museum

BeerED10

BEER VILLAGE HERITAGECENTRE


Beer has an existing temporarybuilding – The Beer MarineHeritage centre – that hosts alocal exhibition focusing on thelocal marine life. The aspiration isfor a new, permanent buildingto more effectively interpret theJCWHS and existingcomplementary stories

The existing facility has 10 yearstrack record, but is unsustainableas a temporary structure. A newcentre has considerable potentialfor interpretation, and to bettercross-promote Beer QuarryCaves, Pecorama, Branscomevillage and other existing orproposed facilities

· Beer is a thrivingvillage whose historyis developed onstone quarrying,fishing, smugglingand lace-making

· The rocks here areChalk, formed inancient tropical seas

· Beer Stone isnationally importantfor building andlocal flint buildingsalso reflect thegeology

Beer VillageHeritage,EDDC &Devon CC

Not yet clear,althoughcapital likely tobe under£500k

Priority A

Medium term

· Mixed use potentialand revenue costsmust be considered

· Solution must beaccessible to all andsensitive in line withits position in theAONB and JCWHS

· Must considerdevelopment as partof a wider plan forBeer village

· Build on existingstrong volunteer base

ED11

BEER QUARRY CAVES;FACILITYENHANCEMENT

RoleUnique insight

Beer Quarry Caves is one of thehighlights of the coast for anexperience that is linked to aJCWHS theme; the strongmessages of stone quarrying andstone working are told here in agraphic way, but there is morepotential to use it for geologicalinterpretation.

Current audience impact islimited by seasonality, limitedinfrastructure and the limitednumber of guides. The potentialis enormous, but issues of batconservation (the caves are aSSSI) must be considered at alltimes.

Potential to interpret bat habitatsas a complementary theme

· This is where BeerStone was quarried

· This is how stonehas helpeddetermine thecharacter of Beer

· This is what aquarryman’s life waslike through theages

Beer QuarryCaves Co.,Clinton DevonEstates(landowner),English Nature(SSSI), EastDevon AONB,Devon CC

Developmentcosts have notbeenquantified, andshort-termimprovementwork could beinexpensive.

Long termcosts verydependent onpotential forsitedevelopmentin relation toSSSI interests.

Priority A/B

Short to medium term

· Short term could beundertaken to work toimprove visitorreception; currentlynot high quality

· Build partnershipbetween the BQCcompany, EN,landowners, ED AONBand others to identifytrue scope of potentialenhancements

· Look at links withworking quarryopposite site

· Clarify position withrespect to effects ofdisturbance on bats

PECORAMA


Existing successful attraction,with recent successfuldiversification through creationof gardens. Classroom andexhibition space

· Good view of coast Pecorama N/a Potential for developingstrong links with BeerWorld Heritage Centreand Quarry caves





Deliverypartners



SeatonED12

SEATON AND AXEVALLEY WORLDHERITAGE COASTCENTRE; PROPOSEDNEW INTERPRETATIONFACILITY(provisional name)

RolePrimary InterpretationGateway

There is currently no facility inSeaton that provides mainstreamor education-focusedinterpretation of the WHS, or hasscope to develop to do so.

Seaton is significant as the onlygateway town where visitors canwalk relatively quickly to parts ofthe World Heritage Site withrocks from all three Geologicaleras.

The potential for interpretationhere is high (both with visitorsand residents) if a centre islinked into the other key assetsof Seaton and Axmouth; the Axevalley and estuary wildlife, themarine life, the Undercliff NNRand the tramway attractions.

· This is the start ofthe Axmouth-LymeRegis UndercliffNational NatureReserve

· The massive Bindonlandslide is part ofthe Undercliff

· Rich source ofinformation aboutthe Undercliff andthe Axe Estuary;Geology in thelandscape

· Access to theTriassic, Jurassic andCretaceous withinwalking distance

EDDC, SeatonDevelopmentTrust, DevonCC, Seatontramway,SeatonMuseum,Seaton TIC

Estimatedcapital costsanywherebetween£0.5m and£2mdepending onfeasibility

Priority A

Medium term

· Feasibility study andoptions appraisalmust be undertakento determine viability

· Location must beclose to WHS itself

· Long term revenuecase to be proved

· Strong links to otherlocal attractions mustbe developed

· The centre must linkinto strong localassets; Axe Estuaryand wildlife (inc.volunteers), UndercliffNNR and Tramway

ED13

SEATON LABYRINTHPROJECT

RoleLocal outpost

Outdoor project to develop aspiral of time within communitygardens in Seaton, using stonefrom coast and JCWHS imagerysuch as ammonites, and asensory interpretation panel.

Interesting and novel project,engaging people in theenvironment through art andmeditation.

· the location enablespeople to see allthree geological Erasof the WHS.

SeatonLabyrinthProject,Devon CC

<£15k Priority B

Short term

· Impact incommunicating withWHS core audiencesshould be examined

· Must consider longterm maintenance

SEATON TIC




EDDC N/a Look at links withproposed Visitor Centre& Tramway

SEATON MUSEUM


Seaton Museum has interestingcollections and could bedeveloped significantly as thelocal focus for World Heritageinterpretation. The scope to dothis is severely hampered bydifficult access to the museum,and very limited resources.

· See Harbour Roadcomments above.

SeatonMuseum

N/a See Harbour Roadcomments above.

Lyme RegisWD1

LYME REGIS MUSEUM;EXTENSION

RoleLocal interpretationgatewayUnique insight

Lyme Regis Museum is currentlythe key established facility forvisitors interpreting the JCWHSin Lyme Regis, alongside a muchwider canvas of exhibits andthemes within the Museum.

The Museum is planning anextension, which would add tothe Museum’s permanentpresentation of geology andprovide learning spaces,educational staffing andtemporary exhibitions related toJCWHS interpretation themes.

Mary Anning’shome and thebirthplace of EarthSciences Globally important

fossil sites;particularly formarine reptiles.Extensive evidenceof early Jurassic seas Black Ven; active

land slips The Undercliff NNR

Lyme RegisPhilpotMuseum

Costs beinginvestigated

Priority A / B

Medium to long term

Lyme Regis’s positionand status along theJCWHS warrants asignificant facility forinterpretation. Thisproject should work incollaboration withother projects in Lymeto deliver that The level of WHS

priority depends onthe detailed nature ofplans put forward





Deliverypartners



WD2

LYME REGIS CULTURALQUARTER PROJECT


The Cultural Quarter Project is anew project that would see theredevelopment of Lyme's MarineTheatre and the adjoining areato Lyme Regis Museum toprovide a World Heritage SiteVisitor Centre.

This centre would interpret therole that the Town andsurrounding area played in thebirth of the earth sciences and itsplace in the 'Walk ThroughTime'.

The Theatre would be anextension of the Museum duringthe day and revert to theatre useduring the evening; proving astrong link between the JCWHSand the arts. The Project wouldaim to include gallery space forlocal fossil collectors to exhibittheir collections.

An extension of themessages currentlyconveyed at LymeRegis Museum, witha more exclusivefocus on the JCWHSmessages

Lyme RegisArts Trust, withLyme Regismuseum, townCouncil andDevelopmentTrust

Estimatedcapital costsanywherebetween £2mand £3mdepending onfeasibility

Priority A /B (feasibilitydependent)

Medium to long term

Until the scope of thisproject has beenrefined its WHSpriority cannot beidentified. It has thepotential to address asignificant need, notsufficiently addressedwithin the scope ofexisting plans for theMuseum. An initial feasibility is

recommended beforethe project isconsidered further

WD3

LYME REGIS FIELDSTUDIES CENTRE


There is a real need for aresidential field studies centre inthis part of West Dorset. Theexisting site at Woodberry downis likely to close in 2005, and thisproject would aim for arenovated or new facility to meetmultiple needs of the town andcountryside.

Hands-on engagement with theenvironment is one of the mosteffective forms of interpretationand learning. This centre wouldnot just provideaccommodation, but expertiseand on site interpretation as wellas safe field based learning.

Globally importantfossil sites;particularly formarine reptiles.Extensive evidenceof early Jurassic seas Black Ven; active

land slips The Undercliff NNR Mary Anning’s

home and thebirthplace of EarthSciences

Lyme RegisDevelopmentTrust, LymeRegis Museum,CharmouthHeritageCentre andLyme RegisTown Council

Estimated totalcosts at about£3mdepending onfeasibility

Priority A

Medium to long term

This project shouldlink into all other localdevelopments, as wideapart as Chesil beachand Exmouth This must aim to be a

high quality, yearround mixed usefacility which has thesupport of the wholecommunity

LYME REGIS TIC



Whole JCWHSinterpretation, withmore knowledgeabout facilities in thelocal area

Lyme RegisTown Council,WDDC

N/a N/a

CharmouthWD4

CHARMOUTH HERITAGECOAST CENTRE;RENOVATION ANDEXTENSION


Charmouth – Lyme Beach iscurrently the highest profile partof the World Heritage Site interms of telling geologicalstories. It is the best place forgaining hands on experience offossil collecting, and theinterpretive role of CHCC iscritical to both presenting theSite, and helping to educatevisitors on responsible and safefossil collection. The CHCCextension project was conceivedin advance of WHS status, and isjustified in relation to anestablished business plan thathas successfully attracted HLFand other partner funding.

This is one of thebest places globallyto find fossils ofmarine life from theLower Jurassicperiod They, and the fossil

insects, wood anddinosaurs, provideevidence of life onEarth 190/200myears ago You can find fossils

yourself, safely andresponsibly. Manyare common butyou could findsomething special The landslides here

are spectacular, withrich wildlife

CharmouthHeritage CoastCentre Trust,CharmouthParish Council,West DorsetDistrictCouncil(WDDC),Dorset CC

Approx.£450,000

Priority A

Short term

Although retaining itsindividual identity, theCentre must link itsidentity strongly tothe JCWHS as a whole,and to other centrestelling different WHSparts of the story Share learning from

developing the centrewith other projectsalong the coast





Deliverypartners



WD5

WEST DORSET FOSSILEXHIBITION / MUSEUM

Potential rolePrimary or localinterpretation gatewayUnique insight

A key gap in interpretation is afirst class exhibition of thespectacular fossils from the WestDorset coast.

This would include the story ofthe collection and preparation offossils, a skilled local industrythat has not yet been effectivelytold. The local collectors havethe aspiration for this exhibitionbut not the resources.

The impact of such a schemecould be extremely high and oneof the principal reasons whypeople would visit the WorldHeritage Site.

These are thespectacular Jurassicfossils of WestDorset. This is how fossils

are prepared so thatthey can be studiedand preserved. Local collectors have

worked together tocreate this display The story of

evolution of life andpast environmentscan be seen throughthe fossil record

Not identified Not known,but any optionwill havesignificant cost

Providing the facilities toexhibit JCWHS fossilsnear to the site is a highpriority for the JCWHS,but it is not possible togive priority to thisspecific project untilideas are developedfurther.

Long term

It is important tocheck that the needsexpressed here are notbeing met by plans forother centres ormuseums Build a strong local

partnership andcommunity support totake this further

Bridport and West BayWD6

WEST BAYDEVELOPMENT;MOUND BUILDING ANDPIERS

RoleLocal outpostPotentially also a localinterpretation gateway

West Bay seafront has recentlyundergone redevelopment aspart of a coast protectionscheme led by West DorsetDistrict Council. WDDC haveidentified that the scheme hastwo potential WHS interpretationopportunities:1. The end of the piers willprovide superb views along thecoast, and there is anopportunity for new interpretivepanels, or WHS themed publicart.2. West Bay Mound (overlookingthe new harbour) is proposed asthe site for a landmark building,with the possibility of multi-usespace on the first floor, in whichthere might be potential forJCWHS interpretive oreducational purposes.Effective interpretation at WestBay has the potential to reach alarge number of people.

You can see theJCWHS betweenExmouth andPortland from here The fantastic East

Cliff is made ofsandstone, andcontains importantfossils This is the start of

Chesil Beach, thepebbles here aresmall, and getbigger towardsPortland West Bay is a superb

illustration of thechallenge of coastprotection, and howapproaches havechanged over thelast century

WDDC The totalcapital cost forthe Moundbuilding isestimated atbetween £1mand £1.5mdepending onthe facilitiesprovided

Priority B/A

Medium term

This is not primarily aWHS project butcreates significantopportunities Outdoor

interpretation on thepier is relatively lowcost and a highpriority WHT should continue

to participate indiscussions with thecommunity, WDDCand their architectsover development ofproposals for themound building

BRIDPORT MUSEUM

WEST BAY SALTHOUSE

EYPE CHURCH CENTREFOR THE ARTS

BRIDPORT ARTS CENTRE

Although discussed at theGateway Town meeting inBridport, no firm proposals weremade for developments at any ofthese facilities.

The Salthouse hosts aninformation point and ainteresting display about theCoastal protection scheme.

The Arts centres are verysupportive and have hostedinnovative Jurassic Coast or Sea-themed arts programmes.

The key JCWHSmessages from WestBay are above, butthe Jurassic Coast isjust one of anumber of stronglocal heritage andnatural Historythemes of theBridport & West Bayarea

N/a N/a The aspiration inBridport is more forheritage centre(s)focusing on rope andnet making, andmigration, than theJurassic Coast.As important, vibrant,communities at thecentre of the JCWHS, it isimportant that Bridportand West Bay decide theway in which they canmost effectively definethemselves in terms ofthat Jurassic Coast,however big or smallthat may be.





Deliverypartners



BRIDPORT TIC



Whole JCWHSinterpretation, withmore knowledgeabout facilities in thelocal area

WDDC N/a N/a

AbbotsburyABBOTSBURYSWANNERY ANDGARDENS


No proposals for development atthis facility.

Gardens are close toChesil Beach – vastand unique barrierbeach The Fleet lagoon is

accessible at theSwannery

Abbotsburytourism(Ilchesterestates)

N/a There is potential todevelop someinterpretation linked toattractions atAbbotsbury; it is aunique location andwould fill a gap ininterpretation coverage

DorchesterWD7

DORSET COUNTYMUSEUM; JURASSICCOAST GALLERY


The County Museum has anaspiration to expand andmodernise the current geologygallery, as a significantenhancement within an existingfacility.

It would not represent a changein the overall shape of earthscience provision at theMuseum, but would increasequality and accessibility.

Able to cater for a variedaudience including moreinterested and specialist visitors.

These are the rocksand fossils, and theunderlying geologyof the whole WorldHeritage Site These same rocks lie

under the rest ofDorset You can find out

about the scientificactivity that is goingon here We have events

where you can hearfrom leadinginternationalscientists

Dorset CountyMuseum,Dorset CC

£450,000 Priority A

Short term

The Museum has anexisting revenuestream for long termsustainability The gallery should also

be a resource forengaging scientistswith the people andthe Site The project could be a

pilot for a JC Net typesystem (see Site-wideprojects 2.2)

BREWERY SITE

Potential RolePossible site for a futureprimary interpretationgateway

This site is available as a possiblelocation for a significantdevelopment.

It is not an existing facility, andas an idea is less developed thanany other proposal, so is notconsidered further at this stageof studies

N/a Privatedeveloper

Not assessableat this stage

Requires a vision, scope,feasibility andevaluation alongsideother majordevelopment sites

DINOSAUR MUSEUM


No proposals are yet availablefor this facility, although acollaboration could beadvantageous for both parties;this is a popular small museum

N/a DinosaurMuseum

N/a N/a





Deliverypartners



WeymouthWP1

WEYMOUTH PAVILIONSITE; PROPOSED VISITORCENTRE


Weymouth is the biggest CoastalGateway Town along the JurassicCoast, has a large populationand is very popular with tourists,but the only information centreavailable in Weymouth is the TICon the Weymouth Esplanade,which is limited in size. A WHSinformation or interpretationcentre has been proposed aspart of any future developmentscheme in the pavilion area(earmarked for regeneration).

This location offers benefits in itsproximity to other touristamenities, has car parkingnearby, and is adjacent toWeymouth Harbour, where thereis potential for enhancedprovision of marine based tripsand interpretation associatedwith the WHS.

The potential here is to increaseawareness with a large layaudience of locals and visitors,and enable people to find outabout the whole site in oneplace.

You can get anoverview of theWHS here From here you can

go to Purbeck,Portland, ChesilBeach, West Dorsetor East Devon. Eachhas a different storyto tell There are

spectacular fossilsclose by here The views towards

Purbeck fromWeymouth beachand seafront aretremendous You can catch a

boat from here tosee the site from thesea

Weymouthand PortlandBoroughCouncil, whoalso own thefacility.

Proposedaspiration islikely to havecapital costsupwards of£2m

Priority A

Medium to long term

This site has highpotential to provide asignificant facility forthe WHS, but keyquestions remain toconsider in relation toscope, vision andviability These need to be

considered as apriority, through thedevelopment of afeasibility study andbusiness plan Any proposed centre

should link withexisting or plannedfacilities in Weymouth,Portland and thesurrounding area

WEYMOUTH MUSEUM



n/a n/a n/a

PortlandWP2

CHESIL BEACH CENTRE;EXTENSION


This is a small-scale existingfacility right on Chesil Beach atFerrybridge, focusing on theFleet ecosystem, bird life andChesil beach.

This project aims to extend thecentre to provide a larger indoorspace able to hold groups,particularly educational groups,and to improve the currentexhibitions and catering offer.

The Chesil Beach Centre isideally located, enabling peopleto get onto the Site and alongthe Fleet by boat; this projecthas very good potentialinterpretation impact

This is Chesil Beachand the Fleet You can walk onto

the beach from hereand appreciate itsenormous size The Fleet is one of

the most importantecosystems inEurope. The pebbles here

are bigger thanthose at West Bay Gateway to Portland

WPBC, withCrown Estate,IlchesterEstates andDorset CC

Estimatedcapital costs atunder £500k

Priority A

Short-medium term

Established centre thatis critical to WHSmanagement, andbest location forinterpreting story ofChesil Beach Likely to be achievable

due to site, planningauthority attitude andrelative low cost The Centre has a key

role in managingvisitor pressure in theNature Reserve Build on strong

volunteer base





Deliverypartners



WP3

INDEPENDENT QUARRYAND LEARNINGSTONECENTRE; PROPOSEDLEARNING AND VISITORCENTRE

RoleUnique insight

The project aims to undertakeconservation and education ofthe natural and cultural heritageof Portland, represented by thegeological story and quarryinghistory; the story of stone

The aim is to convert the DrillHall into a learning and visitorcentre, and restore theIndependent quarry into a multi-purpose site with a ‘walkthrough time’, a wildlife area,and performance / workshopspace

As well as being a project foreducation and the localcommunity, the project wouldattract the many people who goto Portland Bill and leavewithout seeing any of the rest ofthe island

This is PortlandStone, and this ishow it was quarried This is how Portland

has been shaped bythe quarry industry– ancient andmodern Portland Stone is

important forbuilding andsculpture Portland produces

spectacular andsuperb fossils Walk through time Portland’s unique

flora, ecology

Portland Stoneand QuarryTrust (PSQT)

This project ispart of thebroaderQuarry Parkidentifiedbelow

Estimatedcapital costsbetween £4mand £6m,althoughincludessignificantinput in kindfrom Quarryoperator

Priority B / A(depending on widerPortland plans andfeasibility)

Medium to long term

This is an ambitiousproject and markets,audiences, andoperational structuremust be thoroughlyresearched Portland is a focal

point for the WHS butthere is no clearpicture of how thisproject might link toother proposals Portland projects must

have a high level ofcommunityownership, and mustbe linked

WP4

PORTLAND QUARRYPARK

RoleUnique insight

The Quarry Park idea includeseverything to do with thequarrying of Portland Stone andthe landscape created by it. Theolder quarries in the north of theIsland contain a uniquecombination of geology,industrial archaeology, stoneheritage, wildlife and art. Theyoffer a fantastic opportunity forthe Island through educationand tourism.

The included quarries are Tout(sculpture) and Kingbarrow(wildlife), Independent and theDrill hall, parts of Inmosthay andJordan.

In terms of theJCWHS, most ofPortland isinaccessible (the siteis the cliffs) but theWorld Heritage storyfor Portland is thestory of PortlandStone

Dorset WildlifeTrust, PQST,EnglishNature,Portland StoneCentre, WPBC,WHT

n/a There is huge potentialon Portland, but there isno consensus yet onhow the fantastic naturaland man-maderesources of the islandshould be interpreted.This should be a priorityfor the island and thedifferent organisationsworking there

WP5

SOUTHWELL BUSINESSPARK; JURASSIC COASTCINEMA

Potential roleLocal outpost

Very early idea for a film theatrein Southwell Business parkenabling coach parties whocome to Portland Bill to see ashort presentation about theJurassic Coast WHS

The whole JCWHSand Portland’s placein it

SouthwellBusiness Park

Not known This is an interestingidea, and if developedmust link carefully to theother developments inPortland and the widerarea

PORTLAND BILL VISITORCENTRE


No proposals for development atthis facility, other than someupgrade of interpretationmaterial. See Site-wideProjects, Project 1.1 forpotential Display materials.

Most southerly pointon JCWHS

WPBC <£5 k forupgradinginterpretationmaterial

N/a

PORTLAND MUSEUM

RoleLocal outpost

This is a small-scale museum. Ithas an interesting geologicalcollection, but there are noproposals for developmentwithin the JCWHS context

As rest of Portland N/a N/a N/a





Deliverypartners



Rural Purbeck & WarehamPB1

LULWORTH HERITAGECENTRE; ONGOINGDEVELOPMENT


Lulworth Cove is visited by morethan 400,000 people each yearand is a prime site forinterpretation both of a layaudience and the more specialistmarket. It is also a focus foreducational groups of all ages.

There is ongoing enhancementof the excellent Heritage Centre,which, if done sensitively and iswell linked into the JCWHScontext, could have a very highimpact.

The existing messagesat Lulworth are: Geomorphology,

the ‘perfect’Lulworth cove andDurdle door Stair hole and active

geological processes Fossils and the fossil

forest Coastal erosion Management and

tourist pressure

LulworthEstate

N/A Lulworth Estates areencouraged to linkinto the broadernetwork of JCWHSdevelopments

PB2

MUSEUM OF JURASSICMARINE LIFE; PROPOSEDNEW FACILITY

RoleUnique insight

This new museum wouldprincipally conserve and exhibitthe internationally importantEtches collection of Jurassicmarine life fossils from theKimmeridge clay.

The facility would also open upopportunities for research andeducation.

You can see veryrare, and hard toconserve, fossil fish,dinosaurs, reptiles,crustaceans andammonites The fossils can help

us see how themarine life haschanged from thepast to the present You can find out

more about thegeology of Purbeckand the KimmeridgeClay

Museum ofJurassic MarineLife

Total projectcostsestimated at<£750k

Priority A / B

Medium term

In principle anenhanced display ofthe spectacularPurbeck fossils wouldbe a valuable additionto the excellentinterpretation on offerat Lulworth. Being able to show

local fossils locally is ahigh priority althoughit must be done well,to appeal to a wideaudience, and mustlink to other similarschemes

FINE FOUNDATIONMARINE CENTRE,KIMMERIDGE

RoleLocal outpostUnique insight

No new development isproposed at this location.

The centre was built recently toprovide marine information, andthere is local scope to increasethe material available to interpretthe local geology.

Geology is found onthe seabed too, anddifferent rockscreate differenthabitats The sea is constantly

changing the shapeof the coast You can see the first

oilfield in Dorsethere

Dorset WildlifeTrust & theFineFoundation

N/a There is potential to linkin more closely with thiscentre, and to place itstrategically within thewider context of JCWHSstories

PB3

LANDERS QUARRY,LANGTON MATRAVERS

RoleUnique insight

This project is to establish avocational and recreationalcentre for stone carving inPurbeck. Beyond this focus, theproject also will provide uniquesafe underground access to aPurbeck Quarry, the traditionalmeans of quarrying in this partof the coast, and a small indoorinterpretive exhibition, focusedprimarily on the quarrying story,with teaching and workshopspace for stone skills.

The site will present the onlyaccessible dinosaur trackway inPurbeck, and provide access toall the Purbeck beds.

This is the story ofPurbeck quarrying,you can visit one ofthe traditionalworkings. You can learn about

and try thehandcraft of stonecarving here. This is a good place

to see wheredinosaurs oncewalked in thelandscape. Would be a safe

place to see thePurbeck Beds –much of the coast isunsuitable for publicvisits

PurbeckDistrictCouncil

The site will begiven free ofcharge to anew PurbeckStone CentreTrust.

The total costestimated at c.£400,000

Priority B

Medium term

Not primarily justifiedon the basis of JCWHSinterpretation butwould be a valuableadditional, in a similarvein to Beer QuarryCaves, and potentialPortlanddevelopments





Deliverypartners



LEESON HOUSE FIELDSTUDIES CENTRE


As with the proposed Lyme fieldstudy centre (WD3), directengagement with theenvironment is one of the mosteffective forms of interpretationand learning. This existing centreprovides accommodation,expertise and on siteinterpretation as well as safe fieldbased learning.

There are no developmentsplanned here except to increasethe links between the site andDurlston Country Park and castle

As Durlston Castle(see below, PB5)

Dorset CC N/a Linking field studiescentres to existing orplanned interpretationcentres, and the Siteitself, is a high priority,especially for educationalgroups

PB4

PURBECK INFORMATIONAND HERITAGE CENTRE(WAREHAM TIC);ENHANCEMENTS

RolePrimary interpretationgateway & transport hub

Wareham is seen as the‘Gateway to Purbeck’, and theTIC is the main visitor facility inthe town, with a smallinterpretation and exhibitionspace available.

This is not a large facility, so thedegree of interpretation of theWHS will be small, however it isa key objective to provideinformation to manage visitorpressure throughout Purbeck.

You have arrived inPurbeck, a specialplace with sensitivecountryside and adistinctive part ofthe JCWHS You can visit these

places to find outmore about theJCWHS interests inPurbeck. Use yourcar as little aspossible; there arelots of good optionsfor public transport

PurbeckDistrictCouncil

Estimatedcosts arec£20k

Priority A


High priority in viewof role in shaping visitsto Purbeck. Limitedinterpretive impactdue to space Link with Train Station

is a high priority, toprovide information ata rail / businterchange

PB5

STUDLAND GEONEEDLE

RoleLocal outpost

A landmark monument to matchthat at Orcombe Point, Exmouth

This is a celebrationof the achievementof WH status. This isthe eastern end ofthe Site, and theneedle is made fromrocks from the Site

Dorset CCwith NationalTrust and FineFamilyFoundation

Total cost c.£30k

Priority A

Short term

Simple project toincrease awarenessand ownership

SwanagePB6

SWANAGE MUSEUMAND HERITAGE CENTRE;FACILITY UPGRADE


This is an existing visitor centreabout Swanage and the area’sheritage. Current exhibitionsneed upgrading, with anincrease in amount and qualityof material geared towards theJCWHS.

The centre will be an informationhub for the JCWHS in Swanageand Purbeck; but in particularconcentrating on linking peopleto Durlston Castle, the majordevelopment in the town.

You can find outabout the wholeJCWHS here Information from

here will lead you toDurlston Castle,Lulworth, thequarries or otherlocal centres relatingto the JCWHS

PurbeckDistrictCouncil,SwanageMuseum,Dorset CC

Estimatedcosts are<£50k

Priority A/B


Potential to orientateand distribute visitorsfrom key location.Revenue sustainabilityis an issue.

SWANAGE PIER


Seeking to review and developnew interpretation focused onlocal fisheries and tourism. Thisis primarily a walking pier, butsome boat trips leave from hereand others from a different partof the seafront.

N/a Swanage PierTrust

N/a Priority C

This is potentially aninteresting project,but its justification isnot based on JCWHSin particular.





Deliverypartners



PB7

SWANAGE GEOLOGICALEXPOSURE SITE;SUTTLE’S QUARRY

RoleUnique insight

This new project aims to createan accessible rock face within adisused quarry in which the rocksequence (and henceevolutionary timeline) is shownand interpreted; a site where thegeology of the WHS can beinterpreted safely

This will be done in the contextof the traditional Purbeck stonequarrying industry and it’simpact upon the local landscape

Walk through timein Purbeck;evolutionarytimeline Story of Purbeck

stone Safe access to the

exposures that aredifficult to access onthe coast itself

Suttle’s StoneQuarries ltd &SwanageTown Council

Not known.The projectwill have twostages, the firstbeing relativelyinexpensive.

First phase:Priority A / B

Short term

Interpretation must bevery high quality, andappeal to more thanjust a specialist market A strong link to

Durlston castle,Leeson House andother local projects isrecommended

PB8

DURLSTON CASTLEPROJECT

RolePrimary interpretationgatewayUnique insight

Durlston Country Park receivesmore than 400,000 visitors ayear due to its spectacularlocation, unique mixture ofwildlife and existing visitorcentre. It is also directly on theSouth West Coast Path Nationaltrail.

The Castle within the park isbeing redeveloped to replaceand expand the existing centre,and provide a high qualityfacility to interpret the JCWHS,the wildlife and the local history,and support catering, artsexhibitions and conferenceprogrammes.

This project will link into existingand new local centres e.g. thequarry sites. It will be developedas The Eastern Gateway to theWHS.

Lower Cretaceousfossils, includingdinosaurs, reptilesand mammals Geomorphology,

including Old HarryRocks, andconcordant /discordant coastline Samuel Beccles,

fossil collector Dramatic cliff top

walks andspectacular views Local history

connection withstone; George Burt,Great Globe etc Link to nearby

Purbeck quarries,uses for local stone

Dorset CC Estimated totalcosts for phase1 includingpurchase oflease £2m

Priority A

Medium to long term

Dorset County Councilflagship project forWHS Draft Business Plan

and Management Planin existence Major community

development (Friendsof Durlston) Building on success of

existing visitor centre The project must be

profit generating

Bournemouth & PooleDiscussions yet to be held on Anchor Town enhancements. Initial view of World Heritage Team is that core task is to work through the TICsand to enhance the profile at the main transport nodes in the City – Airport, Bus Station and Railway Station.


6 MEANS OF DELIVERY

This plan will be achieved through a combination of human and financial resources. The first two parts of this section outlinethe different agencies, bodies and people who are already or may be involved in the development, delivery and ongoingmaintenance of the different actions, and their role. The third part looks at specific, identified human resource needs.Financial resources for achieving delivery of these projects are being sought through a coordinated approach (via the WorldHeritage Steering Group) to regional and national funding agencies. For more information please see the IAP –ProgressReport or contact the World Heritage Team. As with section 5, this section, though broadly complete, will be open tochange as the delivery mechanisms develop and change with time.

6.1 Management, coordination and delivery of Site-wide interpretation, and input into site-specificprojects

World Heritage Team (WHT)Responsibilities: The WHT, hosted by Dorset and Devon County Councils is responsible for coordination of WH Site-wide

and site-specific interpretation, for advising on interpretation issues and services at specific sites and forensuring consistency of interpretation message. The team comprises two earth scientists to providespecialist advice, knowledge and input in the earth sciences, a visitor manager, an education coordinatorand a projects coordinator. Other responsibilities include training, production and distribution of a smallrange of free publications, and branding. Supporting the management of the World Heritage Site is thisteam’s primary mandate.

Via: The WHT workload is determined by the Management Plan, FFA and Strategies / Action Plans developed incollaboration with the broader WHS partnership; specifically the Steering Group and its Working Groups3.The work programme is agreed and ratified by the World Heritage Steering Group. English Nature (EN)input into the work of the Earth Science Manager and Advisor, and their aims of geological conservationare entirely consistent with those in the WHS management plan.

WHS Working GroupsResponsibilities: The Education, Museums, Tourism, Gateway Towns Working Groups, along with the SCAG and Creative

Coast groups all have a major role to play in advising, supporting and in some cases deliveringinterpretation related initiatives.

Via: The IAP, the Education and Marketing Strategies and other relevant documentation from the groups.

East Devon AONB teamResponsibilities: The East Devon AONB team is responsible for the development and implementation of the East Devon

AONB management plan. The team plays a major role in the delivery of WHS interpretation in East Devon,such as interpretation panels, access, walks and events, and works closely with the WHT in this context.

Via: East Devon AONB Management Plan, Interpretation Strategy and Coastal Path Corridor Plan andinterpretation working group

Dorset Countryside and Dorset AONB teamResponsibilities: The Dorset AONB team is responsible for the development and implementation of the Dorset AONB

management plan. With Dorset Countryside Service, the AONB team will play an increasing role in thedelivery of WHS interpretation in Dorset, such as interpretation panels, access, walks and events, and willwork closely with the WHT in this context.

Via: Dorset AONB Management Plan, proposed Coastal Path Corridor Plan

World Heritage Coast TrustResponsibilities: Although the Trust’s role has only begun to evolve, its remit to support conservation and education will

ensure it has a significant role in grant funding for work in this area. It will also support Site wide actions,such as commercial and free publications, and play a major role in managing the brand. Training will beone of the issues that the WHCT may be able to support.

Via: IAP, Education strategy, AONB interpretation strategies, Coast Path Corridor Plans, WHS MarketingStrategy

Private SectorResponsibilities: There are significant opportunities for the private sector to become involved in Site-wide interpretation.

For example a number of web-sites have been set up in relation to the Site, and which will seek to useadvertising and linking to be commercially viable. The role of the WHT in this case will be to work with thecompanies to ensure accuracy and quality. The role of the Trust will be to endorse products as ‘OfficialJurassic Coast products’.

Via: Private enterprise, IAP

3 See Framework For Action for detailed governance structure of the JCWHS


6.2 Management, coordination and delivery of site-specific interpretation

Site specific interpretation will be undertaken by a diverse range of different bodies, loosely categorised as public agencies;volunteer or civil society groups and commercial operators. The following classification includes all three of these types ofbodies:

Local AuthoritiesResponsibilities: To support or directly undertake the consultation, coordination, facilitation, and implementation of

projects within their Authority, and to provide or help secure a funding package

Via: Corporate objectives; local, regional and national plans; IAP for guidance

Landowners (e.g. The National Trust, Lulworth Estates, Clinton Devon Estates, MOD and English Nature)Responsibilities: Individual interpretation facilities and services, such as visitor centres, guided walks and events. Land

management and conservation responsibilities.

Via: IAP for guidance, their own business plans, detailed feasibility studies etc.

Existing Visitor centres and Museums (e.g. Chesil Beach Centre, Philpot Museum)Responsibilities: Individual interpretation facilities and services, but with additional curatorial objectives and balance of

emphasis on science and education

Via: IAP for guidance, their own business plans, detailed feasibility studies etc.

Promoters (Including marketing organisations)Responsibilities: Appropriate promotion, packaging, events

Via: WHS Marketing Strategy and this IAP for guidance, campaigns, regional objectives (e.g. South WestTourism)

Private Sector Service Providers (e.g. Discover Dorset tours)Responsibilities: Individual interpretation facilities and services, provision of accurate information

Via: IAP for guidance, their own business plans and literature

Community groups (local groups, such as Town Development Trusts, normally in collaboration with local authorities,landowners and commercial partners)Responsibilities: Consultation, coordination, local involvement and ownership, facilitating events and discussion, and

project implementation

Via: Local plans and aspirations, IAP for guidance

6.3 Identified human resource needs

The following needs do not fit within the context of the Aspiration, outlined in section 5, but have been identified asnecessary in order to achieve the projects described therein.

Project Details Existing work toaddress this need

Priority

PERIPATETICINTERPRETATIONAND CURATIONSUPPORT FORMUSEUMS ANDVISITOR CENTRES

The NHM Scoping Study recommended this actionbased on a detailed analysis of the local needs.Specifically, there is need for staff to supportinterpretation (both facility- and activity-based, includingaudience considerations, design development andscripting) and Museological issues (collectionsmanagement, archiving and so on for museum staff)

The Dorset CC Museumsadvisor plays a key rolein this, but is only ableto dedicate a small partof his time.

AThis role would play a vital partin the upgrading andenhancement of interpretationand museum facilities along thecoast

TRAINING FORVOLUNTEERS,CENTRE STAFF,BUSINESSES ANDCOMMUNITYREPRESENTATIVES

There is an identified need for a programme of trainingfor volunteer guides and local people to enable them tolead groups, provide information and directinterpretation, and generally be empowered to tell thestory of the Jurassic Coast and wider countryside.

There is also a broader support role needed to coverareas such as Health and Safety, Green tourism andCustomer Service, and to build capacity in localcommunities to develop business plans, fundraise etc insupport of interpretation initiatives

The Jurassic Hostprogramme, as part ofthe broader ‘Welcome toExcellence’ scheme isrun through Dorset andnew Forest Tourismpartnership, providingknowledge about theJurassic Coast to localbusiness and TICs.

ASupporting a knowledge-basedlocal tourism and serviceindustry is a priority for longterm conservation andenhancement of the Coast andCountryside.

It is recommended that potentialfor a scheme of this type islooked into in more detail.