WINTER colour has now been installed along the seafront a month early in a bid to protect against possible early storms. 

As part of the Swanage Town Coastal Protection Scheme, concrete temporary seasonal wave barriers are installed by the Environment Agency every year.  

But this year it has been done early to “provide as much protection as possible from any potential early season storms” and will remain along Swanage’s seafront until April 2025. 

While these defences are only temporary, Dorset Council, the Environment Agency and Swanage Town Council are working to reach a permanent flood protection solution. 

A disability report commissioned by Swanage Town Council in November 2022 highlighted that the barriers were too grey for the those with difficulty seeing to safely see the contrast between the blocks and the pavement.  

In response, Dorset Coast Forum project officer Sara Parker successfully proposed to the Environment Agency an art trail project. 

Swanage ended up with flood defences that are more striking to the visually impaired, raises awareness of flood protection due to what was painted on them and a something that was more colourful during the winter months. 

It even received national recognition earning a Highly Commended in the Community Action category of the annual Flood and Coast Excellence Awards 2024. 

Last November, Storm Ciaran took its toll on Monkey Beach’s wave barriers, with reports suggesting that one large wave pushed the barriers followed by a second large wave which flipped some of them.  

Sara Parker said: "It is hoped that the Flooding Swanage with Art panels will still be a visual feast and meet the core purpose which is to make them stand out from the pavement for the visually impaired. 

“Revisions to the accompanying art trail leaflet will happen to reflect the change and the leaflet will be available on the dedicated webpage and at the Swanage Information Centre and Library.  

“Prior to the art being installed we would advise those who are visually impaired or with limited mobility to be cautious and familiarise themselves with the new layout at Lower High Street.”