I am totally overwhelmed by the amazing response from the local community, our partners and supporters in response to this urgent appeal to save Upton Heath. This is a landmark moment for nature recovery in Dorset. Thanks to the generosity of the public and the commitment of our partners, we can now restore this neglected area of heathland to help wildlife thrive, reduce wildfire risk, and improve access for local communities. This land will now be protected for wildlife and for people, forever.

Brian Bleese

Dorset Wildlife Trust

I am thrilled that the public campaign to bring this precious part of Upton Heath into the ownership of Dorset Wildlife Trust has been successful. Since being made aware of the proposed sale, I have worked closely with Dorset Wildlife Trust, as well as both local authorities and our communities, to raise public awareness and the funds required to purchase the site.

I am pleased to have been able to highlight the fundamental issue of planning rights on protected sites today with the Prime Minister and to have brought a parliamentary petition on how we better secure these sites for our communities and for nature going forward.

It is incredible that in just two weeks, people have pulled together to show their strength of feeling and to raise such a huge sum. I had people respond to my petition from Wareham, Highcliffe and Blandford and when I was collecting signatures in person on the heath it was amazing to talk to people who visit from beyond Dorset to enjoy the heathland’s beauty.

Although we have successfully secured the sale, we have not yet raised everything we need to cover the full costs and the restoration of the site, which has declined in condition and is at risk from fire and anti-social behaviour. With that in mind, I have written to Defra seeking support from the newly announced Species Recovery Programme.

Cllr Vikki Slade

MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole

This is a really important moment for Dorset. Upton Heath is a special place for wildlife and for local people, and this purchase means it can now be properly cared for as one joined‑up nature reserve.

By acting now with our partners, we’ve helped secure a nationally important habitat, reduced future risks like wildfire, and protected a place that so many residents value for walking, nature and wellbeing. At the heart of the Dorset Local Nature Recovery Strategy is everyone coming together to help our special habitats and landscapes recover.

This purchase of Upton Heath is a strong example of organisations and communities all coming together to make a lasting difference. This is just the start, and we'll continue to work with partners on lobbying for national funding towards the restoration of this site."

Cllr Nick Ireland

Dorset Council Leader and Cabinet member for Climate