Local news for the Dorset Coast powered by the Echo

A petition is calling for the DWP to reconsider its powers to check information held by banks about Universal Credit claimants

"Slingshotting" involves entering a roundabout from the right-hand lane and circling around to take a left exit, avoiding a line of waiting vehicles.

A plan has been submitted to place two traveller caravans in Christchurch

A long-running dispute over public access through a waterfront route in Poole has resurfaced after an application was submitted to formalise opening hours for the gates.

Plans to convert and alter an existing detached garage to a short term holiday let have been submitted to BCP Council.

Developer proposes demolishing a Sharp Road, Poole warehouse to build 14 new industrial units with parking and landscaping near Alder Hills Nature Reserve.

Plans have been submitted to turn a bungalow in Bournemouth into two semi-detached homes.

Dorset Coroner appeals for next of kin of David Neil Hopkins, 61, from Christchurch, who died on Stour Road. Death not suspicious. Call 01202 123900.

Shaftesbury’s Neighbourhood Policing Team highlighted a range of work it carried out over the past week, including safeguarding vulnerable people, tackling antisocial behaviour and working with partner agencies.

The Cake House on East Creech Farm in Dorset has been praised by visitors for its food and scenery

People carrying out home renovations will receive greater protection from rogue ‘cowboy builders’ through a new database of trusted traders

Hightown Hill will be closed overnight for resurfacing from 9pm, 10 September to 6am, 11 September. Kier Infrastructure, Hampshire County Council.

An exclusion zone for a rescheduled fireworks display is set to take place in Poole Harbour.

The Property Care Association (PCA) is introducing a scheme to support contractors who specialise in removing spray foam insulation from properties.

A painting of a girl born 370 years ago is one of the highlights of the Charterhouse three day auction in September.

Drivers in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole face road closures and temporary road works in September due to BCP Council and utility roadworks. Expect delays.

Discover the dark history of the Queen's House in Lyndhurst and the brutal 'Rufus Stirrup' test that determined the gruesome fate of New Forest dogs.

A proposal to transform a mixed-use site into a six-bedroom HMO and a two-bedroom flat.

Two sisters are raising money to bring happiness and joy to children in hospital.

A budget adjustment has delivered thousands of pounds of savings for Bournemouth Town Council

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.

SHOULD there be a tourist tax in Purbeck – the “Purbeck Pound”?