OPINION is split over the Olympic legacy and long term benefits for businesses in the area.

Traders and businesses were told to expect higher visitor numbers - an extra 30,000 a day - during the sailing events at Portland Sailing Academy last summer.

But they failed to materialise as many people were put off by fears of congestion and long traffic queues.

Many businesses reported a poor trading year in 2012 but publicity and international media coverage is being touted to improve the local economy long term.

Traders have mixed experiences of how they fare in the year since the Games.

Some businesses say they have not seen any evidence of an Olympic legacy and that the heatwave and return of Condor Ferries are the reasons for stronger trading this summer.

Paul Thompson, of National Inspirations, St Mary Street, Weymouth, said: “Last year trade was not that great and we were really down.

“This year so far things are picking up which is good.

“I don't think it's down to the Olympics, it's more to do with Condor coming back and the good weather.

“We've done a survey of our customers and most people have said they came this year because they stayed away during the Olympics last year.

“The Relief Road and traffic lights by the train station have helped the town but personally I can't think of any other legacy.”

Andy Alcock, secretary of the Weymouth and Portland Licensed Fishermen's and Boatmen's Association, said: “It's lovely to see Condor back and last month the beautiful weather has been superb with high visitor numbers but I don't think it's because of the Olympics.

“If Weymouth is sunny the town is busy, that's it in a nutshell.

“From what I've seen there's not been anything positive from the Games or any legacy.

“I can't see any benefits to it all and I work on the harbourside and know a lot of boatmen.”

Brian Jung, of Island Gallery, Portland, said the Olympics was mostly geared around Weymouth and has not affected Portland.

But Paul Dawson, of Castletown Stores, on Portland, said they had seen an increase in trade.

“I'm quite impressed by the increased number of people using the marina and sailing academy on Portland which is bringing extra custom for us.

“Anything that's good for Portland is good for Portlanders because it will help with employment and the identity of the island.

“The Olympics has put Portland on the map which can't be a bad thing.”