Following a detailed review of the financial position of the Jurassic Coast Trust (JCT), led by the interim CEO Luke Rake, Trustees have decided to close down the Trust and move World Heritage Status oversight back under the management of the Local Authorities of Dorset Council and us, with the former acting as host authority.
The move comes after an analysis of commercial activities of the charity, as well as modelling the effects of the rising costs of operations. Trustees determined that the best way to ensure the continued benefits of World Heritage Status in Dorset and East Devon were to revert back to Local Authority care rather than remain an independent charity.
Councillor Nick Ireland, Leader of Dorset Council, said: “We would like to thank the Jurassic Coast Trust for their hard work and commitment over the past 7 years. We are working with the Trust and Devon County Council to ensure a smooth transition of the management of the World Heritage Site back to both councils.”
Councillor Andrea Davis, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Environment, said:
“We have a strong working relationship with Dorset Council, and I’m certain that together we can build on the work of the Trust to focus on improving education and awareness of the Jurassic Coast’s prestigious status and we will ensure that this unique stretch of coastline is looked after for future generations.”
John Wokersien, Acting Chair of the Jurassic Coast Trust, said: “It has been a pleasure to have served as a Trustee with the Jurassic Coast Trust since its inception and to have been involved as former chairman of the Partnership Advisory Committee which developed great focus on what can be achieved under the designation of England’s only Natural World Heritage Site. Working with such dedicated, professional and knowledgeable staff has been a privilege and from them, Trustees, Ambassadors, Volunteers and Communities have learnt so much about this special place. Whilst I very much regret that it has not been possible in these challenging economic times to sustain our operation, I know the benefits of World Heritage Site designation are set to continue into the future.”
Luke Rake commented: “The Jurassic Coast is the only natural World Heritage site in England and rightly deserves its recognition as being of international significance. Sadly, despite excellent work of the staff in promoting the benefits and palaeontology of the area, and productive partnerships with research universities, local museums and businesses, the financial position of the Trust means it is unviable to continue in its current form. JCT Trustees are committed to ensuring World Heritage status is maintained and they and I are working closely with partners to ensure the best possible outcome for Devon and Dorset.”