Mid Dorset and North Poole MP Vikki Slade has continued her campaign to protect part of Upton Heath from potential development.
The Liberal Democrat MP recently held discussions with Dorset Wildlife Trust and representatives from Dorset Council and BCP Council about ways to preserve the area.
Dorset Wildlife Trust has raised almost £75,000 through public donations towards a possible purchase of the land.
The aim is to prevent the site from being sold to private buyers and potentially used for mineral extraction.
Campaigners say such activity could have a serious impact on the surrounding Site of Special Scientific Interest and its wildlife habitats.
Upton Heath is home to a wide range of species, including all six of Britain’s native reptiles and sixteen species of dragonfly.
Alongside the fundraising effort, both councils are also considering options that could protect the land as a community asset.
Ms Slade has also launched a petition calling for the heath to be preserved.
She says hundreds of residents have already signed in support of protecting the area’s natural heritage.
The MP has said she plans to present the petition in Parliament and raise the issue with the Government if the situation remains unresolved.
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