C-SCOPE Project approved for Dorset under 2 Seas Programme

The Dorset Coast Forum has developed a project, with partners in Belgium, called C-SCOPE (Combining Sea and Coastal Planning in Europe). The project was submitted to the Cross Border 2 Seas Programme earlier this year and was approved this month – it will start in early 2009. There are three elements of C-SCOPE, all linking together to provide a comprehensive plan and information resource to underpin sustainable coastal management. Firstly, it will produce a framework for integrating terrestrial and marine planning by developing marine plans at different spatial scales using effective and proven stakeholder engagement. Secondly, it plans to develop an innovative and unique planning tool, which will inform decision- making and help to achieve sustainable coastal economies and environments. Finally, it will develop an Interactive information tool, which will provide open access to a wealth of coastal information, and will encourage sustainable use of the coast. The project will also provide a series of hi-tech interactive information points along the coast. Much of the work within C-SCOPE has been developed in light of the 2012 Olympics Games, some of which will be held off the coast of Dorset and which presents an opportunity to develop a maritime legacy which will benefit Dorset’s coastal communities and the maritime sector long into the future.