Geology

Dorset’s Important Geological Sites Group

DERC holds about 800 records of sites of geological interest in Dorset. The records are a combination of literature search and fieldwork. There are over 40 geological SSSI in Dorset, including the whole coastline, and over 60 Local Geological Sites (LGS) that are mostly inland.

The primary task of the Dorset’s Important Geological Sites (DIGS) group has been to select sites for conservation. The sites were visited by a group of members for assessment as possible LGS using the following criteria:

  • scientific importance
  • educational value
  • ease of access
  • historic significance

Ownership of the site is determined together with the local contacts if necessary. Then, only with the owner’s permission, the site can be nominated for designation. With a map and description, LGS are incorporated in the District Local Plans alongside SNCI.

Most sites will require management; in some cases the clearance of the rock faces needs heavy machinery, in others the removal of decades of vegetation growth needs to be done by hand. An old quarry face has been re-exposed to show the Forest Marble at Wanderwell Quarry. This LGS is within a Local Nature Reserve near Bockhampton. The old quarry face of Inferior Oolite Rubbly Beds in Quarr Lane has been cleared at Sherborne (above, right). Additionally, in the car park and picnic site at Rockpit Farm (Maiden Newton), the old working face has been cleared to expose the Lower Chalk – Upper Greensand junction. All these are excellent examples of co-operation between DIGS and the local authority. Information boards have been put up at these sites.

In Purbeck and West Dorset the National Trust has been working with DIGS to make their LGS sites more accessible and visible to the general public, such as Shutes Lane, Symondsbury (above, left). Many other landowners are equally helpful in supporting DIGS’ efforts to bring the knowledge of earth science to a wider audience.

Quarr Lane open space, Sherborne
Thorncombe sands at Shutes Lane, Symondsbury

Purbeck Limestone Quarries Virtual Field Trip

DIGS have produced a CD of Powerpoint virtual field trips to Purbeck limestone quarries in south Dorset. The CD was produced as part of the Purbeck Keystone Project and received funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund. Copies are available from DIGS for £5 including P&P, payable to DIGS.

Contact details for Dorset’s Important Geological Sites Group (DIGS):

Mr Alan Holiday, Chairman of DIGS, 11 Pugmill Lane, Chickerell, Weymouth, DT3 4PB 01305 789643 alanholiday@btinternet.com