A major £5 million investment to safeguard and improve Swanage’s seafront has been approved by Dorset Council’s Cabinet.

This will pave the way for long-term stabilisation works to the town’s Green Seafront space and wider improvements to the main beach seafront road.

The project brings together two key schemes – Swanage Town Council’s £6.9 million plan to stabilise the Green Seafront and Dorset Council’s £2.5 million project to upgrade Shore Road.

Dorset Council has agreed to contribute £2.5 million towards the stabilisation works, helping to close a funding gap in the town council’s scheme, along with a further £2 million for highway improvements in addition to £500,000 already committed.

Cllr Jon Andrews, Cabinet member for Place Services, said: “Swanage’s Green Seafront is a hugely important part of the town’s identity, and it’s vital that we act now to safeguard it for the future.

“Improving the pedestrian experience along Shore Road will also help enhance the public realm along the seafront.

“By working in partnership with Swanage Town Council, we can both preserve this much-loved area and improve it for residents, businesses and visitors alike.”

Tourism in Swanage plays a significant role in Dorset’s economy, worth around £77 million a year and supporting more than 1,000 jobs.

The Green Seafront has experienced increasing ground movement in recent years and without intervention, would further deteriorate and could lead to the space not being available for events.

At the same time, the Shore Road project will focus on improving safety and accessibility along the seafront, with wider pavements, improved crossings, removal of on-street parking and traffic calming measures.

Cllr Chris Tomes, Swanage Town Mayor said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Dorset Council. The work to the Green Seafront will not only address ground instability but will deliver better access, enhanced public spaces and environmental improvements, creating a more resilient and inviting seafront for residents and visitors for decades to come.”

Swanage ward member, Cllr Gary Suttle said: “This is truly a once-in-a-generation opportunity to protect and enhance the long-term future of our seafront which will secure Swanage’s reputation as a high-quality visitor destination. The Green Seafront attracts over 100,000 visitors annually through events such as the Swanage Carnival and the enhancement and protection of this area will help ensure these events continue to thrive.”

Proposals for both the Green Seafront and Shore Road were developed following several years of technical studies and public engagement.

Work is expected to move into the next phase during 2026 and 2027, including detailed design, planning and procurement.

Construction is currently anticipated to begin from early autumn 2027, with the aim of completing the works ahead of the 2028 summer season.