> Environment
Dorset is renowned for the diversity of its geology and wildlife, and just over half of the county is protected and designated within two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). Indeed, 53% of the Dorset area is designated as AONBs compared with only 15% nationally. The most significant geological feature is its section of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site that stretches 95 miles from Studland to Exmouth in East Devon.
> Leisure
One of the biggest draws to Bournemouth, Poole and the surrounding Dorset area is the diverse range of outdoor leisure facilities. The area’s stunning coastline and protected bays and harbours offer some nationally renowned locations for watersports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, scuba diving, sailing and fishing. Indeed, the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy has been selected to host all the sailing events of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. At the same time, walkers, cyclists or horse riders are all well catered for. There are also numerous golf courses within the area. For the more adventurous, rock climbing, abseiling, paragliding, zorbing, hot air ballooning and even llama trekking are available in the area!
> Health
Before the system was overhauled to create a more comprehensive ‘annual health check’, ratings for NHS trusts were awarded using the star rating system, which were awarded on a four point scale from 0 stars to 3 stars. Latest data shows that all of the area’s main NHS trusts scored well and are delivering a high quality of service. There are also private hospitals located in Bournemouth, Poole and Dorchester.
> Education, partners and dependants
Should you be fortunate enough to relocate to Bournemouth, Poole or remainder of the county, we offer a high level of support for individuals and organisations as well as their partners and dependants.
> Residential property
With its idyllic picture postcard villages and outstanding natural environment, residential properties continue to be in high demand in the area. House prices within the county have seen strong growth within the last decade, although it should be noted that this has been in line with the national trend and they remain significantly lower than for comparable properties in London or the South East region.
> Community safety
The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole area has long enjoyed its reputation for being a safe and peaceful location - with very good reason. Indeed, over 99% of local residents said that they feel fairly safe or very safe outside during the day in the latest area profiles by the Audit Commission.
