Art auction launched for Future Portland France Quarry

Future Portland needs to raising £60,000 to buy land at France Quarry on the island.

So far, the group has raised £22k to secure the land and have been told they must raise the rest of the funds by April.

Art up for auction to buy France Quarry site (Image: Future Portland/David Nicholls)

Now, the group is auctioning local art to help raise the necessary funds.

Each item has been generously donated by a local artist, with all proceeds to directly benefit their cause.

Future Portland says that by participating in the auction, bidders are not just acquiring artworks, but also helping save a piece of Portland for the community.

Art includes views of Church Ope by Edward Vine, Portland Bill by Carol Cruickshank, a large wooden mosaic bowl by David Nicholls, ceramic by Tiffany Scull, and Portland Harbour at Spring Dawn by Frances Hatch.

Artworks will be on display in the window of the Wool Shop on Easton in Portland until Saturday, March 14.

Art up for auction to buy France Quarry site (Image: Future Portland/Edward Vine)

Set in the heart of Easton, the France Quarry site was once quarried for Portland stone but has since been reclaimed by nature. Campaigners say it is now home to thousands of species of plants and animals, some of which are critically endangered. It is now designated as a Local Wildlife Site of county importance for its biodiversity.

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Future Portland says it will look to safeguard the area by protecting and enhancing the site’s biodiversity, retain and expand existing allotments as well as maintaining and improving public access in ways that respect the quarry’s natural environment.

A spokesperson for Future Portland said: “We need to raise £60,000 by April. Thanks to incredible local support, £22,000 has already been pledged in donations – but we still need your help to reach the target.

“Buy a piece of art and help save a piece of Portland.”

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The area has previously been considered for development, first in the late 1970s and again in October 2023, when it was shortlisted for allocation. This was fiercely opposed by local residents and rejected by Portland Town Council.