Across the county geodiversity is something planners, developers and community groups should keep in mind alongside biodiversity. Our recent Dorset AONB Management Plan includes a policy framework for earth heritage identifying key issues. This is good news!

Local character local stone

New buildings like this one at Bridport show the way forward for developers. Designs in sympathy with older local buildings using materials that are local or reflect local character have been used to great effect.

The flint facing and ham stone walls on this estate hide the fact that it is a new homes development.

Tipping and infill of old quarries

A pile of rusty barbed wire fencing in an abandoned Forest Marble quarry. Old quarries are havens for wildlife providing diverse habitat. They also provide educational resources and access to rock exposures away from the coast. The threat is obvious.

Coastal Sea Defences

Careful choice of building stone and loose cobbles can ensure the geodiversity of our coastline is maintained. These cobbles at Sidmouth are the wrong rock type and so reduce the geodiversity of the area. Much of our coast is designated for its geodiversity and sea defences may obscure important sites. While compromises have to be reached between engineering mechanics, cost and environmental impact, thought should also be given to impact on local geodiversity.

These are just three examples of ways our activities effect geodiversity. Can you think of others? Loss of individuality in soil types from agricultural impact? The list goes on.