Chapter 15 The Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site understanding the nature of geotourism

Abstract

The Dorset and East Devon Coast World Heritage Site (also known as the ‘Jurassic Coast’), stretches for 155 km across the southern English coastline, encompassing one of the most spectacular geological sequences in the world. The internationally renowned coastal exposures of the Jurassic Coast were awarded World Heritage Site status in 2001 based on a near complete sequence of Mesozoic rocks, which record evidence and development of early reptiles through to the age of the dinosaurs. For a site to obtain World Heritage Site status, it must exhibit cultural or natural features that are of ‘outstanding universal value’ and must be protected for present and future generations of all humanity. Protecting the integrity (or condition) of the site is essential for maintaining the qualities that led to site inscription. Coastal erosion maintains the geological integrity of the Jurassic Coast by exposing fossils that are then washed out onto the beaches. The fossils are an important part of our geological heritage.