MOTORBOATS and jet skis will not be able to operate closer to the shore in Swanage and Studland following strong opposition to proposed changes to byelaws.

In a public consultation, 86% of respondents in Swanage and 73% in Studland opposed moving the 5-knot speed limit buoys nearer the shoreline, said Dorset Council.

The buoys will remain at 300 metres from mean high water in both bays.

A total of 437 responses were received during the eight‑week consultation on updates to watercraft byelaws, including from sailing, rowing and swimming groups.

Now, a new draft byelaw is designed to improve safety on increasingly busy waters and protect sensitive marine habitats, including seagrass in Studland Bay.

The consultation also saw more than 60% of respondents back extending the period when speed restrictions apply by one month, so the amended byelaw will now run from March 15 to October 30 each year.

The new rules will not apply to sailing boats and rowers.

Cllr Nick Ireland, Dorset Council leader and cabinet member for climate, performance and safeguarding, said: “We’d like to thank everyone who took part in this consultation. It shows just how much people value these bays and want them to be safe and well managed.

“We’ve listened carefully to what people told us. That means keeping the focus on motorised craft, extending the timing of speed restrictions and responding to strong views about the buoy positions.

“Our aim is to make it safer and easier for everyone to enjoy the water, while protecting the natural environment that makes this part of Dorset so special.”

Dorset Council will now update the byelaw in line with consultation findings and submit it to the Department for Transport.

The proposals will also be considered by full council before being put forward for final approval by the Secretary of State.

Updating a byelaw typically takes about 18 months. If approved, the new rules are expected to come into force in 2027.