Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

BCP Council will consider the future of SoBo Beach on Bournemouth’s Southbourne Promenade, as its lease expires October 31 and a new operator is proposed.

An old village pump at Kingston, near Swanage, is to be renovated to stop it falling into ruin

Skoda will open its newest franchised site at the Van Mossel Breeze Volkswagen showroom on Yarrow Road in Poole starting October 1.

Four million households without smart meters are urged to submit a meter reading before October 1 as energy prices rise and bills increase.

A new petition is calling for the State Pension age to be reduced to 65, with thousands already backing the proposal.

The 2025 coin, featuring King Charles III on one side and a British bee design on the reverse, was sold on eBay for £99.99

ITV is changing the Emmerdale and Coronation Street TV schedules next week due to the broadcaster airing a football match on Tuesday evening (September 29).

A new analysis reveals where it's most expensive to use a public toilet in Britain, with one town charging £1 a visit and others asking just 10p.

Vintage store Garm Depot has grown into a creative hub for almost 20 independent businesses, artists and entrepreneurs in the historic town centre.

A new butcher’s shop has opened after its owners spent 10 years in wholesale.

A property has been shut down following reports of crime and anti-social behaviour.

A giant mechanical dragon, live lightning, and fire performances lit up Bournemouth’s Arts By The Sea for its opening night.

Dorset shop has been named among the UK's top 40 fish and chip takeaways in the National Fish & Chip Awards

Dorset Greener Homes opens eco-friendly properties to the public on October 17, 18, 24 and 25, showcasing insulation, solar panels and low-carbon heating.

Coda Music and Arts Trust invites young people in Dorset and the New Forest to submit artwork for its ‘Play’ gallery exhibition in November 2026.

A new pub focusing on community and customer experience is set to open its doors this weekend at the former Brewhouse & Kitchen site in Poole.

Lindisfarne, fronted by co-founder Rod Clements, will take the stage at Lighthouse Poole on October 31.

Lighthouse Poole has announced that its Family Cinema strand will carry on thanks to backing from the BFI Film Audience Network (FAN)

Rockley is delighted to announce that they have been named British Marine Business of the Year 2026.

Rockwater can keep its Branksome beach deck in Poole for three years, subject to conditions including seasonal removal, no music and limited hours.

These old photos show the world-famous beauty spot of Lulworth Cove over the years

Purbeck Cider launches People’s Choice cider in Dorset, donating £1 per litre sold to Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Community-grown apples support charity.

Plans for a new 'build your own' waterfront home with panoramic views have been approved for a site in Dorset

Dorset is the location for Mike Leigh's Play For Today, Nuts in May, which is free to watch on BBC iPlayer

A YouTube video provides an insightful look at Brownsea Island in 1962.

Only Fools and Horses repeats are as popular as ever this Christmas - but did you know that the classic BBC comedy was not once, but twice filmed in Dorset?

Sandbanks Ferry staff were 'verbally abused' by passengers during a temporary suspension.

Hundreds of jobs are to be created at a holiday park as part of a major nationwide investment.