Most readers will be familiar with Studland beach, whether they are lucky enough to be habitués, occasional visitors or have it on their bucket (and spade) list, given that it is often highlighted as one of the best-known (or often, best), Naturist beaches in the country. Of course that is highly subjective, and obviously I am biased, and very fortunate to have Studland on my doorstep! writes Howard Dymock
Last summer the ‘Future Studland’ survey was commissioned by the National Trust to take a fifty-year view of pressures and challenges presented by climate change, infrastructure and transport issues, and visitor numbers for the whole Studland peninsula. Following engagement events with stakeholders, businesses, local residents and visitors, the survey was completed by over 950 people. The responses will inform the Trust’s plans for Studland, assisting efforts to preserve its natural beauty and nature, while enhancing accessibility for all. The report was finally published by Dorset Coast Forum (DCF) in July, alongside a response from the National Trust.
Elaine Snow from DCF said, "This report represents the end of an insightful and important engagement process at Studland. Over six months of last year, we met with many people who love and enjoy Studland. Not only did they contribute to our data collection, but they emphasised the importance of Studland as a space for generations of visitors and a beautiful, natural coastline. We heard from many groups, including beach hut owners, Naturists, cyclists, walkers, and constructed a special survey for young people.”
Whilst I don’t think there are any surprises in the report, the real discussion about solutions must now take place. Thanks to BN’s work promoting the project within and beyond the organisation, from Forum Live shows to BN Magazine features and beach days, the relatively high (some might say disproportionate!) proportion of responses from Naturists does flag Naturism as a major draw. It is firmly in the top three answers to the question, ‘What do you like about Studland?’ and therefore of considerable economic benefit to the area.
The following quotes, from both the main report and the NT’s response, reflect our input and augur well both for our involvement and for the secure future of Naturism at Studland.
“The Naturist community represented a high number of respondents on the survey, with 44% stating that they spend most of their time at the Naturist Beach. Supporting Naturism was the most mentioned theme in the open ‘any other comments or suggestions’ question. British Naturism actively supported this study by sharing links to this survey with their community. As one of the oldest Naturist sites in the country the needs of this user group will continue to be of importance.”
"Recommendations:
Any long-term plan for Studland should therefore consider Naturists at Studland as a stakeholder group and major users of the beach.
It is noted that Naturism featured strongly in the responses as nearly 1/3 of all responses came from those with an interest in Naturism.”
My own view from forty years of beach use, and in recent years volunteering as a BN Beach Officer and Representative on the Studland Beach Users Action Group, is that there are both challenges and opportunities ahead. For example, the shifting coast and rising sea level, and increasingly severe winter storms, are already affecting existing infrastructure (cafes, car parks and beach huts), whilst the Ferry Company’s proposals (Inspector’s Report still pending) could affect roadside parking and travel patterns. On the plus side, our voice has been heard and recognised as a major user group and might very well support arguments for extending Naturist use.
So, I commend everyone, whether regular, occasional or wishful visitors, to read the documents in full. And members should rest assured that BN is continuing to represent our interests in this wonderful area!
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